Budapest, split by the Danube into hilly Buda and flat Pest, is famous for its grand Parliament and its thermal baths. Here's what to see and how to plan it, with our guide to the Széchenyi baths.
What to see in Budapest
- Hungarian Parliament: the riverside icon; book a guided slot in advance.
- Buda Castle & Fisherman's Bastion: the castle hill and the best view over Pest.
- Chain Bridge: the classic crossing between Buda and Pest, beautiful at night.
- Széchenyi & Gellért thermal baths: a Budapest essential (covered in our guide).
- St Stephen's Basilica: climb the dome for panoramic views.
- Danube night cruise & ruin bars: the floodlit city and Kazinczy Street's nightlife.
Our guides on Budapest
- Budapest Thermal Baths 2026: Széchenyi Tickets & Guide
- Budapest Christmas Markets: Vörösmarty, Basilica & Tips
Practical tips
- How many days: 3 days cover the highlights and the baths.
- Best time: spring and autumn; summer is busy, winter cold.
- Book ahead: the Parliament guided tour sells out fast.
- Getting around: the city is walkable and cheap, with a handy metro.
How to plan your visit
- Getting there: From Ferenc Liszt airport, the 100E bus reaches the centre in ~40 min and is cheap. Then, a very walkable city with a handy metro.
- Rough daily budget: Cheap: €40-60 per person per day.
- Common mistake to avoid: Not booking the Parliament guided tour (it sells out) and going to the baths without a towel or flip-flops.
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