Trendy cafes with delicious food and stunning architecture – Budapest is one of the most beautiful and underestimated cities in Europe. The creative, vibrant city is the capital of Hungary and home to many international students, and that’s for a good reason. Budapest is super affordable! Spend 3 days exploring all the things to do in Budapest.
Things To Do in Budapest in 3 Days
Budapest is divided by the Danube river with on one side the hilly “Buda” area and the flat “Pest” side. Use this 3 day-guide to explore the highlights of both sides of the city. The guide is designed so you won’t have to walk large distances.
Day 1 – Both sides of Budapest
1. Fisherman’s Bastion
The Fisherman’s Bastion with its beautiful detailed arches and seven fairytale-like white towers is a castle overlooking the entire city. It is incredibly picturesque and one of the best things to do in Budapest.
The Fisherman’s Bastion is easy to reach by Metro, followed by a short 10 min walk. To avoid the tourist buses, plan a visit before 9 AM. It is open 24 hours a day, except for the towers (9 AM).
2. Matthias Church
Right behind the Fisherman’s Bastion is the Matthias Church. The colorful roof tiles, decoration, and architecture are what makes it a unique church in Europe. Both the church and bastion have the best view on Budapest.
After having visited these two great sights, walk down the hill towards the bridge but stop for delicious breakfast and a coffee at Zërgë Coffeeshop or Home of Franziska.
3. Széchenyi Chain Bridge
Follow your way down the hill towards the water and cross the famous Széchenyi Chain Bridge – the first stone bridge that connected Buda to Pest. Once on the other side, follow the riverside towards an imposing part of history.
4. Shoes on the Danube – Imposing thing to do in Budapest
The Shoes on the Danube River is a war memorial placed on the location where over 20,000! Jews people had to take off their shoes, got shot, and fell into the river.
5. Parliament Building
Located on the opposite side of the Danube river lies one of the world’s most stunning government buildings. The impressive Hungarian Parliament, in its gothic style, is the largest ever built in the country. Via a 45-min tour, you will be able to see the inside.
