Welcome to Budapest!
Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is a city of stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture. Known as the "Pearl of the Danube," it offers visitors an unforgettable experience with its thermal baths, historic sites, and delicious cuisine. This itinerary will guide you through a perfect day in Budapest on April 5th.
Weather Forecast for April 5th
Expected temperature: High of 64°F (18°C), Low of 41°F (5°C)
Conditions: Moderately chilly and breezy with a 17% chance of light rain
What to wear: Layers are recommended. Bring a light jacket or sweater that you can remove during the warmer parts of the day. Comfortable walking shoes are essential.
Your Itinerary
8:00 AM Breakfast in the Jewish Quarter
Start your day with a traditional Hungarian breakfast at Platos in the Jewish Quarter. Try fresh pastries, eggs, and Hungarian coffee to fuel up for your day of exploration.
Address: Budapest, Kazinczy u. 47, 1075
9:30 AM Visit the New York Café
Experience the "most beautiful cafe in the world" with its gold ceiling, walls, and columns. Enjoy a Hungarian coffee in this stunning historic setting.
Address: Budapest, Erzsébet krt. 9-11, 1073
Tip: There might be a line to enter, but it moves quickly and the interior is worth the wait.
11:00 AM Free Walking Tour
Join a free walking tour that covers both the Buda and Pest sides of the city. These tours typically last 2-3 hours and provide excellent historical context and local insights.
Meeting point: Vörösmarty Square (easily accessible by metro line 1)
Tip: While the tour is free, tipping your guide is customary (2000-3000 HUF per person is appropriate).
2:00 PM Lunch in the City Center
After your walking tour, enjoy traditional Hungarian cuisine at Gettó Gulyás in the Jewish Quarter. Try their famous goulash soup, chicken paprikash, or főzelék (vegetable stew).
Address: Budapest, Wesselényi u. 18, 1077
Price range: $$
3:30 PM Visit Heroes' Square and City Park
Take the metro to Heroes' Square (Hősök tere), one of Budapest's most iconic locations. Explore the square with its statues of Hungarian leaders and then walk through the adjacent City Park.
How to get there: Take Metro Line 1 (yellow) to Hősök tere station
4:30 PM Relax at Széchenyi Thermal Baths
Spend a couple of hours relaxing in the famous Széchenyi Thermal Baths, one of the largest spa complexes in Europe with multiple indoor and outdoor pools of varying temperatures.
Address: Budapest, Állatkerti krt. 9-11, 1146
Tip: Bring your own towel or rent one at the spa, and don't forget flip-flops for walking between pools.
7:00 PM Dinner in the Jewish Quarter
Head to Fat Mama's in the Jewish Quarter for dinner. Try their delicious Hungarian dishes and don't miss their famous flavored lemonades.
Address: Budapest, Dob u. 16, 1072
Price range: $$
9:00 PM Experience the Ruin Bars
End your day at Szimpla Kert, the original and largest ruin bar in Budapest. These unique bars are created in old buildings damaged during WWII and offer a one-of-a-kind atmosphere.
Address: Budapest, Kazinczy u. 14, 1075
Tip: The ruin bars get busier as the night progresses, so arriving earlier means you can explore the unique decor more easily.
Must-See Attractions
Fisherman's Bastion
Perhaps the most famous attraction in Budapest, offering beautiful architecture and amazing views of the city.
Parliament Building
The iconic Hungarian Parliament Building is one of Europe's oldest legislative buildings and a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture.
Chain Bridge
The first permanent bridge across the Danube in Hungary, connecting Buda and Pest, offers spectacular views especially when illuminated at night.
Széchenyi Thermal Bath
One of Budapest's famous spas with multiple thermal pools. A must-visit attraction even for a day trip.
Hungarian Cuisine to Try
Hungarian cuisine is known for its rich flavors, generous use of paprika, and hearty dishes. Here are some must-try foods during your visit:
Goulash (Gulyás)
A traditional Hungarian soup/stew that originated with Hungarian herdsmen hundreds of years ago. Made with beef, vegetables, and paprika.
Chicken Paprikash
Chicken cooked in a creamy paprika sauce, typically served with egg dumplings (nokedli).
Lángos
Deep-fried flatbread typically topped with sour cream and grated cheese. A popular street food.
Túrós Csusza
Pasta dish with cottage cheese, bacon, and sour cream.
Kürtőskalács
Chimney cake - a sweet spiral pastry coated in sugar and often cinnamon, nuts, or cocoa.
Palacsinta
Hungarian crepes filled with various sweet fillings like jam, chocolate, or túró (cottage cheese).
Getting Around Budapest
Budapest has an excellent public transportation system that makes it easy to navigate the city:
Public Transportation Options:
- Metro: Four lines covering major areas of the city. Line 1 is the oldest subway in continental Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Tram: Extensive network with more than 30 routes. Tram 2 offers scenic views along the Danube.
- Bus: Standard blue buses and red trolleybuses reach neighborhoods further into the suburbs.
Ticket Options:
- Single ticket: 450 forints
- 24-hour travel pass: 2,500 forints
- 72-hour travel pass: 5,500 forints
Tip: Always validate your ticket at the orange machines when entering the metro or upon boarding buses and trams. Keep your validated ticket until the end of your journey to avoid fines.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
Currency
The local currency is the Hungarian Forint (HUF). While many places accept credit cards, it's good to have some cash for small purchases.
Language
Hungarian is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas, restaurants, and hotels.
Tipping
Tipping 10-15% is customary in restaurants and for services like taxis or tour guides.
Safety
Budapest is generally safe, but be aware of pickpockets in crowded tourist areas and on public transportation.
Water
Tap water is safe to drink throughout Budapest.
Thermal Baths
Bring a swimsuit, flip-flops, and a towel (or rent one) for visiting the thermal baths.