Should you be in Budapest for just 24 hours, there are still many things to do to take advantage of your trip. Architecture, history and culture are all reasons why Budapest is known by many. We will outline in this blog post the must-see sights and fun activities that will enhance your day in Budapest.

1. Pay your first visit to Buda Castle.

Buda Castle, a UNESCO site just outside the city, should be your first stop for great views of Budapest. Atop Castle Hill, the castle is both a historical site and an excellent place to see the river and the Pest area of Budapest.

The castle stands as a historic building and includes many museums and galleries, for example the Hungarian National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum. Fascination with history or appreciation of classic architecture is all you need to be delighted by the castle complex.

Stray into the gardens and join a leisurely walk and while there, remember to photograph the stunning church with its famous colorful tiles and detailed design. If you walk a short distance, you’ll find Fisherman’s Bastion, a great spot for taking wonderful photos.

2. Head across the Chain Bridge.

Following the visit to Buda Castle, go over the Chain Bridge to the neighboring area of Pest. Built in the 1800s, this bridge represents the city and provides excellent locations for pictures.

The bridge which was the first permanent crossing over the Danube in Hungary, helped join Buda and Pest into a single city. You’ll find yourself surrounded by great views of both sides of the river and its waters throughout the walk.

Pro Tip:

 Head out when the day ends and take a walk across the bridge to feel the city sparkle around you. Seeing the castle, parliament and boats from the cemetery is a view I will always remember.

3. Walk or cycle the Danube Promenade.

When you get to Pest, walk along the Danube Promenade where you will find many attractive sculptures, benches and views.

You can enjoy beautiful buildings, boats moving calmly on the water and performances on the sidewalk. The city’s pace is best appreciated here when you can just pause and listen.

You should spend some time at the Shoes on the Danube Bank Memorial to learn about the Holocaust victims. The memorial is touching and helps us understand the difficult history of Budapest.

4. Go to the Hungarian Parliament Building.

You can’t truly experience Budapest without seeing the Hungarian Parliament Building. This special building in Hungary is the largest and it holds a wealth of both history and art.

Thanks to its Gothic Revival design and versatile façade, it ranks among Europe’s most attractive government buildings. The Danube flows right by it, making it the perfect spot to take pictures.

Though you can discover the inside on a guided tour, seeing the outside is an impressive sight on its own. Consider joining a quick tour to look at the Holy Crown of Hungary and the impressive grand staircase.

Pro Tip:

 Make sure to come early in the morning, as it’s less crowded for the guided tour.

5. Try some of Hungary’s traditional dishes.

If you’re staying in Budapest, you definitely shouldn’t miss out on some traditional dishes from the region.

You should eat at a traditional Hungarian restaurant and try goulash, langos which is flatbread with toppings and chimney cake, a pastry with a sweet, spiral shape.

The Great Market Hall is a great place to enjoy samplings of many unique Hungarian dishes.

A glass of Hungarian wine or a bit of Unicum, a digestif, are great additions to your meal.

6. Have a relaxing time at the Széchenyi Thermal Bath.

Once you’ve explored all day, spend some quiet time in one of Budapest’s noted thermal baths.

The Széchenyi Thermal Bath is one of the most well-known, found inside City Park. The thermal water for this medicinal bath complex comes from two springs and makes it one of Europe’s largest.

Relax in the bathhouse with its mineral-filled waters and amazing Neo-Baroque architecture. Outdoor pools are great, even when it’s cold outside and the environment manages to be both relaxing and friendly.

Pro Tip:

 Walk over to the thermal bath in the evening so that you can see how the bathhouse is lit up by lights.

7. Check out some of the Ruin Bars.

There are many ruin bars in Budapest, each set in an old and abandoned building. Thanks to their lively and fun environment, these bars are ideal for chatty visits with other travelers and locals.

One of the best known is Szimpla Kert, where unique, collected furniture, colorful décor and music create its magic. Even if you don’t drink a lot, you should visit for the good atmosphere.

8. Wind Up Your Day with an Evening Cruise on the Danube

End your evening with a relaxing ship cruise down the Danube. You can see Budapest’s top sights shining brightly at night as you take one of these cruises.

See how the Hungarian Parliament Building, Buda Castle and Gellért Hill are lit up, along with the many bridges that cross the Danube.

Pro Tip:

 Choose a dinner cruise for a chance to dine well while seeing beautiful sights.

One day in Budapest is enough to explore its biggest sights and soak up the city’s distinctive culture. Whether someone enjoys nature, traditions, good food or spa, they will find something to enjoy in Hungary.

It’s good to schedule your day in advance, wear shoes that won’t bother you and keep a map or smartphone available to help you through the city. There is plenty to discover in Budapest.