On your first time in Budapest, this city can be a lot. It offers so many opportunities to have fun and spend your time learning about European history and culture, that it can sometimes confusing. Where to start? Which sight should you visit? Where to eat or drink? The good news is that you’ll find a delightful array of landmarks, museums, thermal baths, ruin bars, and other quintessential Hungarian experiences no matter what. But we are here to help you to spend your first time in Budapest as smoothly and efficiently as possible. 

How long to stay when it is your first time in Budapest?

For first-timers exploring Budapest, allocating four full days for your visit is ideal. Spend 3 days soaking in the city’s charms, and reserve half a day for a tour to Szentendre, a charming riverside town, located in a 40-minute suburbian train ride from Budapest. Usually, one day is enough for each side, but there are so many time-consuming leisure activities in the town, that you’ll be happy that you have an extra day.

When to visit Budapest? 

While Budapest welcomes visitors year-round, we recommend visiting us between mid-April to mid-June and September to October when the weather remains comfortably warm for leisurely strolls. 

July and August can be sultry, while January and February offer shorter daylight hours, making Christmas a cozy option with mulled wine and festive markets—don’t forget your winter gear:-)

Now, onto a pivotal decision: where to book your accommodation in Budapest? 

The city is divided by the majestic Danube River, with Buda on one side and Pest on the other. Buda’s hilly terrain offers more natural beauty, while Pest is bustling with shops, businesses, grand boulevards, and vibrant nightlife. Buda exudes a calmer, residential atmosphere, perfect for a tranquil escape.

How to get around Budapest?

Navigating Budapest is a breeze, thanks to its efficient public transportation system, including trams, buses, trolleys and the 4 metro lines. For convenient mobility, consider purchasing a 24-hour group travel card that allows unlimited use of all public transportation options. 

Hop-On buses could be an option, but they may not be necessary unless you have a specific preference.

You might also be wondering how to navigate Budapest’s public transportation system. 

To get around Budapest efficiently, we recommend using tram 6 and 4 along the Grand Boulevard between the Margaret Bridge and Petofi Bridge; taking Tram 2 along the Danube Promenade between the Margaret Bridge and Liberty Bridge on the Pest side of the Danube River; and riding bus 105 from Heroes’Square to Buda Castle via the Chain Bridge. These options will help you explore the city conveniently and enjoy the sights along the way.

For the first time in Budapest, here are the top 10 sights to see:

Hungarian Parliament: Marvel at its stunning architecture, particularly enchanting when aglow at night. Book a 45-minute guided tour for an insider’s look.

Buda Castle: Dive into history at this royal palace complex, now home to the Hungarian National Gallery and Budapest History Museum, offering breathtaking panoramic views from the rooftop terrace.

St. Stephen’s Basilica: Admire the neoclassical beauty that houses Hungary’s most revered relic—the mummified right hand of King Stephen.

Dohany Street Grand Synagogue: Europe’s largest synagogue, a tribute to Budapest’s Jewish heritage, adorned with captivating Moorish architecture.

Matthias Church: Located in the Castle District of Buda, this Neo-Gothic gem boasts intricate decor, iconic rose windows, and captivating mosaics.

Fisherman’s Bastion: This enchanting structure offers sweeping vistas of the Danube River and Budapest’s skyline, making it a photographer’s paradise.

Shoes on the Danube Monument: Near the Hungarian Parliament, this solemn monument pays tribute to Holocaust victims with 60 pairs of iron shoes symbolizing those who were shot to the river Danube during World War II.

Danube Promenade: Enjoy a scenic riverside walk with breathtaking views of Budapest’s iconic bridges, the Parliament Building, and Buda Castle and Gellert hills.

Gellert Hill: Ascend for awe-inspiring vistas of Budapest, with the Citadella at the summit offering historical and scenic charm (note: the Citadella fortress is under construction so it’s closed to visitors. It will be reopening in 2024. The amazing city view can still be admired.

Chain Bridge: As an iconic symbol of Budapest, this bridge elegantly spans the Danube River, creating a captivating backdrop for leisurely walks and mesmerizing nighttime illuminations.

Don’t miss the opportunity to join our daily FREE BUDAPEST TOURS, FREE BUDA CASTLE HILL TOURS, and FREE JEWISH DISTRICT TOURS for a deeper understanding of each landmark, the chance to meet fellow travelers, and a lot of fun!

Also, visit our Facebook site to explore & plan Budapest before you arrive.