As the capital of Hungary, Budapest brings both culture and excitement and offers many activities to people who visit. Budapest is home to history, food, art and sights that everyone will enjoy. In this guide, we tell you how to see the best of Budapest in a 5-day trip.

Day 1: Visiting the key historical sights in Budapest

Get started in Budapest by learning about its history. Start your day by going to Buda Castle which is on the UNESCO World Heritage list. See its many museums and enjoy visiting the stunning gardens, with views of the city across them. Then, go to the Fisherman’s Bastion which is noted for its beautiful architecture and awe-inspiring views.

Cross the historic Chain Bridge which is the oldest in Budapest and proceed to the impressive Hungarian Parliament Building. Feel amazed by its glorious Neo-Gothic style and, if your timing is right, watch the Changing of the Guards ceremony.

To finish your day, go for a stroll along the Danube Promenade, enjoying sight of the Buda and Pest parts of the city. Stop for a moment to take pictures at the Shoes on the Danube Bank memorial which pays respect to those who died in the Holocaust.

Day 2: Enjoying the many Baths and Spas Around Budapest

You should definitely try the thermal baths, Budapest’s famous attraction. Spend the morning in the Széchenyi Thermal Bath which is the biggest medicinal bath in Europe. Laze in its thermal pools and saunas and treat yourself to a traditional Hungarian thermal bath massage.

After breakfast, go to the Gellért Baths and see the beautiful Art Nouveau building in the background. Have fun swimming in the thermal pools, see the famous Gellért Wave Pool and enjoy your time at the spa.

End your evening by going to the Rudas Baths which is famous for its long history and Turkish style. Relax in the Turkish-style octagonal pool and afterward unwind with a drinks at the rooftop bar that overlooks the city.

Day 3: Spending time at Budapest’s top cultural attractions

With so much culture in Budapest, day three is about checking out its lively arts and entertainment. Spark your day by visiting the Hungarian State Opera House which is Zaha Hadid Architects’ modern redesign of an 1884 Neo-Renaissance palace. If you can, go on a guided tour or watch a show.

Your trip should next include a visit to St. Stephen’s Basilica. Oppsess over the intricate design and do climb to see Budapest from the top for a beautiful view.

Go on to learn about the city’s culture by participating in the art scene. Pay a visit to the Museum of Fine Arts to see an important collection of European art, including pieces by Rembrandt, Monet and Van Gogh. Modern and contemporary art fans will find a large selection at the Ludwig Museum.

Day 4: Getting to Know Hungarian Food

Be sure to eat some Hungarian dishes while in Budapest. The Central Market Hall should be your first place to explore for food. Go through the booths selling fresh food, different spices and homemade delicacies. You should definitely try lángos which are deep-fried and sometimes topped with different ingredients.

Visit a local restaurant for lunch and try local dishes such as goulash, paprikás csirke (chicken paprikash) and chimney cake. Serve your dish together with a local wine or pálinka, a well-known Hungarian fruit brandy.

Plan a food tour for the afternoon, so you can find out which small food places are special. Sample local snacks, visit markets to see what they offer and learn some of Hungary’s food history.

Day 5: Visiting the Parks around Budapest

During your last day, get away from the city and discover the green spaces and gardens found in Budapest. First, go to Margaret Island to explore this green spot in the middle of Budapest. You could have a relaxed stroll, rent a bike or find a place near one of the many fountains.

Then, spend some time at City Park which is famous for its outstanding Vajdahunyad Castle and Széchenyi Thermal Bath. Watch the unique architecture of the castle, go for a walk around the lake and take a boat ride when weather permits.

Finish your stay with a visit to the Budapest Zoo and Botanical Garden which is one of the oldest zoos in the world. Look at a huge variety of animals and move around the beautiful garden, enjoying unusual plants and flowers.

Over 5 days you’ll discover Budapest’s fascinating history, fine works of art, cozy thermal baths, yummy food and green surroundings. Because Budapest has both traditional and new attractions, it is a great place for all kinds of travelers.