You’re travelling to Budapest in Hungary, but only have two nights to see the city. That’s not a problem; we have everything you need! We will be showing you how to enjoy the city in the short visit time you have.

Budapest is exciting even when you’re short on time, as it combines striking architecture, a lively culture and an interesting history. Regardless of whether it’s your first visit or you’re returning for just a few days, this itinerary will help you explore the city’s most beloved sites.

The first day is about exploring Buda.

Get started each morning by crossing the famous Chain Bridge and experience what Buda offers. Its medieval air and many hills give Buda a calm atmosphere. It is a great place for a day sightseeing trip.

Buda Castle

The city can be seen in all its splendor from Buda Castle which sits on top of Castle Hill. Spend time at the history complex, observe relics at the Budapest History Museum and check out the lovely gardens near the castle.

Both the funicular and a walk up the hillside from the bottom lead to the castle. As soon as you’re inside, spend some time admiring the buildings and learning about Hungary’s past monarchs. The castle area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so it’s important for those interested in culture and history to visit it.

Fisherman’s Bastion

Walking just a short way from Buda Castle, you’ll come across the lovely Fisherman’s Bastion. From here, you can see the Danube River and the Pest side without parallel. Be sure to bring your camera.

Built in the late 19th century, Fisherman’s Bastion has a fairy-tale look thanks to its white turrets and massive stairs. You can get a beautiful panoramic picture of the city at this location, especially during sunrise or sunset. Fishmongers’ Guild takes its name from the medieval fishermen who once watched over this part of the city walls as part of their guild.

Matthias Church

Just next to Fisherman’s Bastion, Matthias Church is an incredible example of Gothic style. Come inside to enjoy the beautiful stained glass and the carefully decorated interior. Go up the church tower because you’ll find another great view from there.

This church has been at the center of Buda’s Castle District since the 13th century and was present at the coronation of Franz Joseph I of Austria. Even among the many churches in Budapest, its brightly colorful roof and rich frescoes help it stand out. Located within are a small collection of ecclesiastical items and artifacts in a museum.

On Day 2, discovering the pest side of things.

Come day two, you should explore the part of Budapest known as Pest. It’s the busy, important area for business and government in Budapest. Let’s look at some details about these smartphones:

Parliament Building

Perched alongside the Danube River, the Parliament Building is one of the best-known sights in Budapest. You can discover the spectacular inside of the palace by joining a guided tour and admire the Hungarian Crown Jewels.

With a neo-Gothic design, the Château Frontenac opened its doors in 1902 and features 691 rooms as well as a central dome. Tickets should be booked well ahead, because tours are often filled early, especially when it’s a popular time to visit. If you can’t go inside, take a walk around and shoot some pictures from across the river with the city brightly lit at night.

St. Stephen’s Church

Come and be amazed by St. Stephen’s Basilica, Budapest’s biggest church. Go up to the top of the basilica in an elevator to view the city from above and view the basilica’s dome up close.

St. Stephen is the name of this basilica which also holds the mummified hand of the country’s first king. The interior of the church is filled with big marble columns, gleaming gold altars and detailed works of art. Visitors waiting for the dome to open have a chance to see the skyline from its unique viewing spot.

Opera House of Hungary

If you like the performing arts, you should definitely see the Hungarian State Opera House. Admire its lush interior, attend a show if possible or join a guided visit of this stunning building.

In 1884, the Opera House opened, becoming one of Europe’s best music venues, known for its strong cultural heritage and superb architecture by Miklós Ybl. You can easily see the city’s passion for music and theatre during a quick tour.

Cultural Actions and Pleasant Nights

With excellent spas abound in Budapest, you should take some time to unwind in a thermal bath at either the Széchenyi or Gellért Baths before eating. Spend your evening getting to know the colorful Jewish Quarter and try a Hungarian dinner at a local eatery.

The largest medicinal baths in Europe, located in City Park, are the Széchenyi Baths and are popular with tourists. A special experience is the chance to bathe in the Art Nouveau surroundings of the Gellért Baths. Then, move on to the Jewish Quarter for an evening of varied ruin bars, lively nightlife and nice restaurants. Try goulash, chicken paprikash and chimney cake when in Hungary.

If you enjoy local wines or craft beer, the city also has more and more places to enjoy Tokaji Aszú and artisan brews.

Summary

Even in two nights, you can enjoy Budapest without missing out, thanks to this itinerary. Make sure you explore the city’s past, experience local dishes and look out over the Danube from all sides. You’ll want to come back to Budapest right after you leave, owing to how much it will impress you.

48 hours in Budapest—whether you’re exploring a historic part of town or soaking in hot mineral water—is enough to create memories that will last forever. May you have a great time exploring the Pearl of the Danube!