2 Days in Budapest - 10 Best things to do and see + a bonus
Budapest, a city that is divided in two parts, Buda and Pest. Both sides of the city have a great amount of fun things to do and see but are also quite different from each other. In this post I’ll tell you all about the best things to do in Budapest.
Day 1 - Budapest
1. Matthias Church
A church with a Wonderfull view over the city is the Matthias Church. This colorful church is located next to the Fisherman’s Bastion and together it is worth a visit.
2. Fisherman’s Bastion
My personal highlight and in my opinion a must-visit during your 2 day trip to Budapest, is visiting the Fisherman’s Bastion. This is a remarkable place that gives you a stunning view on the Parlement Building and the other buildings on the other side of the river.
A tip to avoid the crowds, go as early as possible. We got there at sunrise and even at that time the place is slightly crowded.
3. Shoes on the Danube Bank
At first sight you may wonder why there are shoes next to the river. This is a meaningful monument as a reminder of World War II.
At the beginning of the war, Hungary stood behind Hitler (Germany). But at the end of the war, they turned sides and were against Germany. Hungary got taken over by the Germans and the shoes represent the Jews that had to put their shoes off alongside the river and then where shot. They fell in the river and got taken by the current of the water.
People still bring flowers and put them in the shoes as a sign of respect.
4. Hungarian Parliament Building
A building that left me in awe was the Hungarian Parliament Building. The size of it is enormous and the details on it makes it even more incredible. Take a walk around the building to experience the size even more.
5. Ferris Wheel of Budapest
A fun little stop to make is the Ferris wheel of Budapest. You can hop in one of the carts (after you pay of course) and get a better look from above.
Next to the Ferris wheel are some stands with souvenirs and some clothes. A fun extra thing to see while you’re there.
Day 2 - Budapest
6. Great Market Hall
Want to experience a local market? The Great Market Hall has many stands with lots of fresh food. From meat to fruit and from honey to bread. All the food you need, can be found here.
7. Liberty Bridge
Just outside the Great Market Hall, is located the Liberty Bridge. A green massive bridge that brings you from one side of the city to the other. It brings you from Buda to Pest.
8. Szechnyi Baths
After two busy days exploring the city, it’s time for some relaxing. Buy yourself tickets for the Szechnyi Baths at the Northern part of Budapest. From hot inside baths to a swimming pool outside, this is the perfect way to give your body some rest.
9. Citadella
Citadella, the best sunset spot of Budapest. Climb to the viewpoint and have an stunning view over the city as the sun sets and disappears behind the hills.
The climb to the viewpoint is pretty steep but worth it once you see the golden glow fall on the city.
10. Clubbing
Budapest is kind of known for its great party scene. From party boats to rooftop bars, this city has it all. Put on your good shoes and go barhopping in the centre of Budapest. You’ll have an amazing time, that is for sure!
Bonus activity
Back in 2019 I visited Budapest during the summer. And to be honest, if you’re planning to go in the summer, try to plan it during SZIGET. This is Europes biggest Festival and has amazing artist perform.
I have never experienced such an amazing and big festival with so much going on. The festival is located in Budapest on an island on the river.
The festival sells out quickly, so book your tickets in advance.
How to get around
By foot – Budapest has a centered city-center and that makes it a city that can easily be explored by foot. Almost everything is on a walking distance, especially if you go sightseeing in the order I wrote down above.
Public transport – Sometimes you want to go to another side of the city. Budapest is really big if you want to go from one side to the other. If you want to do this, the best way is by taken a Tram of Metro. Get google maps out and type in your next destination so it will give you the fastest way to go.
A positive thing about the public transport in Budapest, it rides on the schedule and is really cheap.
Travel costs
Budapest is a destination that can easily be done on a budget, but if you’d like, there is always a fancier option. Down below I will list some of the most common expenses per day.
Food €10 – €50
Ho(s)tel €10 – 60
Transportation €0 – €5
Entrance tickets €1 – €10
Extra information
Hotel – Budapest is an amazing city with lots of options when it comes to finding a place to sleep. From hostels to cheap airbnb’s. The only thing I would pay attention to is the location. Try to find something close to the center. This will save you time when exploring this amazing city.
Down below is a picture of the place I stayed at. It was located close to the city center and had lots of restaurants nearby. I can’t recommend this place more.
Here is a link to the airbnb.
Weather – Budapest has many seasons. From rainy weather to sunny and hot. The best time to visit this city is from March till October. But overall you can visit this city the whole year. Just check the weather beforehand so you have the right clothes in your suitcase.
Words you can use – Local people always appreciate it when you can speak a few words in their language. Here are some words you can use while being in Hungary.
Thank you Kösz
Good morning Jó reggelt
Good afternoon Jó napot
Good evening Jó estét
Yes Please Igen, kérem
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