Noor
Have a bank holiday weekend coming up and trying to decide where to go? I’ve got you covered. This 3 days in Budapest itinerary will provide you with everything that you need to see in a long weekend in Budapest; one of the most photogenic cities that I’ve ever visited in Europe.
Tell Me More About Budapest
Budapest is the capital city of Hungary, landlocked by seven others in Central Europe. It was created in 1873 after Buda, Obuda and Pest were merged and unified to form one gorgeous city.
In modern times, Budapest is made up of two sides. Buda to the left and Pest to the right, with the River Danube flowing neatly between the two. Together this forms a dramatic skyline that Budapest is famously known for.
I promise you the architecture and views here will make you glued to your cameras. Furthermore, it will without a doubt make you feel like a princess (or prince) starring in your very own fairytale.
Is Budapest Suitable For a Solo Female Traveller?
I went on this trip with a friend, but I also spent some time exploring on my own. That too in a Hijab.
Did I feel safe? Yes. As long as I stuck to the main roads and didn’t wander through any small alleyways I felt perfectly safe. At no point was I harassed by anyone or made to feel uncomfortable as a woman travelling alone.
Is Budapest Muslim Friendly?
To say Budapest is not Muslim Friendly would be doing it a disadvantage. For a city with such a low demand for Halal food, I was surprised to see the number of Halal restaurants readily available in Budapest. Although I enjoyed having a vegetarian weekend, be rest assured that you passionate carnivores out there, won’t have to starve.
As a Hijabi a few individuals did stare when I was on the bus, and naturally, it made me uncomfortable. But it’s also human nature for them to stare and be inquisitive, as they are probably not used to seeing a Muslim woman in a Hijab on their bus.
But by travelling and pushing ourselves out of our comfort zone, we can change that ?.
Related Read:
Day 1 of 3 Days In Budapest Long Weekend Itinerary
Today we are going to start the morning in Pest, before crossing over the river to Buda.
Walking route from Hungarian Parliament Building to Budapest Castle Hill Funicular
We are starting off the morning on foot, as the best way to see the city of Budapest is by walking around. Although if you would rather skip a couple of sights or take a moment of your feet, feel free to hop into a taxi, metro or tram.
Assuming you are heading to Budapest on a long weekend, Day 1 will very likely fall on a Friday. You’ll be happy to know that there are two mosques on the Buda side of Budapest, so you can easily attend the Jummah prayer whilst adhering to the itinerary.
Masjid Dar Al-Salam: Budapest, Bartók Béla út 29, 1114 Hungary
Budapest Mosque: Budapest, Fehérvári út 41, 1119 Hungary
1. Hungarian Parliament Building
Address: Budapest, Kossuth Lajos tér 1-3, 1055 Hungary
First stop of our 3 days in Budapest long weekend travel itinerary is the Gothic Landmark, Hungarian Parliament Building. From here you will be able to get some fantastic views of Buda and its skyline. Although there is a visitor centre, we are just passing by for a photography stop.
TIP: I would recommend walking from the riverside for the best views and photography opportunities.
2. Shoes on The Danube Bank
Next, we will pass by the Shoes on The Danube Bank monument paying our respects to the many lives lost here. During World War II, members of the Hungarian Arrow Cross Party executed approx 20,000 Jews along the river bank. These were innocent people from the then newly established Budapest ghetto.
Today you can see 60 pairs of period shoes made out of Iron attached firmly to the stone embankment, in remembrance of them.
3. Basilica San Esteban, Budapest – Optional Stop
Address: Budapest, basilica san esteban,, Hungary
En route to our next stop, we will pass by Basilica San Esteban. Although Basilica is in the name, today it operates at a Museum. As we have a lot of activities planned out for our first day in Budapest long weekend itinerary, a visit here is completely optional.
4. St. Stephen’s Basilica
Address: Budapest, Szent István tér 1, 1051 Hungary
Opening Hours: Monday – Saturday: 9am – 7pm, Sunday: 7:45pm – n/a
Tickets: St. Stephen’s Basilica (Szent István Bazilika) Tours
St Stephen Basilica is our first official Cathedral stop on our 3 days in Budapest long weekend itinerary. And what an impressive one it is, as it stands proudly in the courtyard, with it’s beautiful architecture.
If the name wasn’t a giveaway already, this cathedral is in dedication to Hungary’s first king, St. Stephen. Inside it also houses the mummified Holy Right Hand, the Szent Jobb. And from the Cupola at the top of the cathedral, you can take in panoramic views of Budapest from above.
TIP: Whilst photography is allowed inside the Cathedral, be sure to not use flash in order to protect the art inside.
5. Love Locks Budapest – Optional
Address: Budapest, Erzsébet tér, 1051 Hungary
For those of you who are into leaving a ‘love lock’ in each city that you visit, here’s your chance to leave your stamp on Budapest. Unlike other cities, you won’t find a bridge awaiting you here, instead, you’ll find a pear tree surrounded by a fence filled with padlocks.
Not only is this a more sustainable way of managing this trend, but this pear tree is very fitting, as its origins are linked to a Hungarian dating service. And today it’s commonly known as the ‘Love Tree’.
6. Széchenyi Chain Bridge
The Széchenyi Chain Bridge was the first permanent bridge built to.. well bridge Buda with Pest. It was designed by the English engineer William Tierney Clark and then built by Scottish engineer Adam Clark. A proud moment here for us Brits!
And today will be stepping onto the bridge from Pest side of Budapest, in the direction towards Buda. From here you’ll be able to get photos of The Hungarian Parliament on the right-hand side, and the magnificent architectures sitting atop of the hill on the left-hand side.
7. Budapest Castle Hill Funicular
Congratulations, you’ve finally made it to the Buda side of Budapest, and it only took half a day into your Budapest Long weekend travel itinerary. From here you’ll be able to ride the Funicular up the hill, or board a cart that will drive you to the top.
Whilst the Funicular may offer better views, the cart may be more economical. As your ticket will cover your round trip. and your in-between attractions transport, atop of the hill.
TIP: You will be approached by drivers offering you the best package to get to the top. Hear them out and make sure the transport/cart is in sight, before handing over any money.
Whichever option you choose, meet you at the top!.
8. Buda Castle
Address: Budapest, Szent György tér 2, 1014 Hungary
For our next stop on our Day 1 in Budapest Long Weekend Itinerary, we are exploring the grounds of Castle Hill.
The first thing you’ll notice after arriving here is that the castle grounds offer fantastic views of the city down below. If you didn’t make it up to the Cathedral earlier, well not to worry, here you’ll be able to take in all the views that you want.
Whilst you can choose to simply enjoy the grounds, I highly recommend a trip inside the castle. Now you’re probably expecting to see the remnants of the castle built in the 1700s, but I’m sorry to say that most of it were destroyed during WWII.
Today it houses the famous Hungarian National Gallery within several of its wings and spanning across multiple floors. I don’t usually enjoy art museums, but there was something about the pieces here that was captivating.
There are many more museums available here for you to visit, such as the Budapest History Museum, House of Houdini, and Museum of Telephones.
9. Sándor Palace
Address: Budapest, Szent György tér 2, 1014 Hungary
A few steps away from the Buda Castle you’ll find Sandor Palace built-in 1806 that plays home and office to the President of Hungary. Be sure to look out for the guard in their green uniform standing proudly outside the palace. Whilst this makes a perfect photo opportunity, remember to not get too close.
10. Matthias Church – Optional
Address: Budapest, Szentháromság tér 2, 1014 Hungary
For our final area of the day, we are heading to Castle Hill, which is the home of Matthias Church. A 14th Century church named after King Matthias who was married here.
Whilst some choose to appreciate the architecture of the church from the outside, you can also visit the inside. A ticket is required though.
11. Fisherman’s Bastion
For the last touristic stop of Day 1 in Budapest Long Weekend Itinerary, we are heading to Fisherman’s Bastion. This is the picturesque fairytale castle-like structure that you would have seen all over Instagram. And for good reasons.
From the pointy roof tiling to the dramatic stairways and lookout windows, you will feel like a princess (or prince) starring in your very own fairytale.
TIP: Be sure to grab a Chimney Cake to enjoy as you explore the grounds.
Free Time In Your Budapest Long Weekend Itinerary
Luxurious Spa Afternoon
By now you are probably all walked out and ready to slow down for the day. And what better way to do that, than head to a spa in the city of spas. Given the affordability of the city of Budapest, this is the perfect chance to splurge a little. I would highly recommend a luxurious spa evening at The Famous Corinthia Budapest.
The Corinthia Hotel in Budapest opened its doors in 1896 and still has a lot of its original decor to boast. In particular, in its Royal Spa. From a 15m swimming pool, relaxation areas, saunas, steam baths, and jacuzzis, there are lots of amenities available here for a tranquil afternoon of self-care.
TIP: If you are a solo traveller, take this time to escape it all and focus on yourself. I highly recommend the Chakra Massage which will leave you in a tranquil slumber-like state, ready for a night of deep sleep.
Whatever you choose to do this evening, make sure you get plenty of rest in, as we continue with our 3 Days in Budapest Long Weekend Travel Itinerary tomorrow.
Day 2 of 3 Days In Budapest Long Weekend Itinerary
Remember when I had said to get lots of rest the night before? Well, I sure hope you did because day 2 of your 3 days in Budapest weekend itinerary will be a jam-packed day filled with history, culture, and swanky Instagram worthy museums and hotspots.
Walking route from House of Terror to Szimpla Kert
1. House of Terror
Address: Budapest, Andrássy út 60, 1062 Hungary
Opening Hours: 10am – 6pm
We are starting day 2 of our 3 days in Budapest long weekend itinerary at the House of Terror. No, this isn’t a haunted house with actors standing in cooky corners waiting to scare the life out of you.
This is a museum in memorial to the victims of the Nazi and Soviet regimes walking us through the dark Hungarian history. Each room here tells a different story transporting you back to a difficult time for the people of Hungary. It can get heavy towards the end but most would agree it’s still worth the visit.
TIP: Get the audio guide, as the upper floors will feel pointless without it if you don’t know what you’re looking at.
2. Hungarian State Opera House
Address: Budapest, Andrássy út 22, 1061 Hungary
Whilst we won’t be heading inside the historic Hungarian State Opera House, we can certainly admire it from the outside.
If you would rather take one of the two daily 30 minutes tours inside, be sure to visit here for the 3 pm and 4 pm tours. You can purchase your ticket here.
3. Museum of Sweets and Selfies No.1: Orgin
Address: Budapest, Paulay Ede u. 43, 1061 Hungary
Opening Hours: 10am – 6pm
After a morning walking through history, we are ready to inject some fun into our 2nd day into our 3 days in Budapest long weekend itinerary. And that’s exactly what the Museum of Sweets and Selfies will have to offer you.
Here you will find many rooms each with a unique decor offering you the best background for that perfect Insta shot. At the very least, you will leave here with lots of Instagram worthy content to brighten up your feed.
4. Central Market Hall – Optional
Address: Budapest, Vámház krt. 1-3, 1093 Hungary
Opening Hours: Saturday 6am – 3pm, Sunday Closed
An optional stop here is Budapest’s Central Market Hall which is very much tourist centric. There are lots of souvenirs and local Hungarian dishes here that you can try, including the traditional Langos.
TIP: Card payments are accepted here.
5. Citadella
Address: Budapest, 1118 Hungary
After all the time spent inside today, we are heading for an afternoon walk up the Citadella. This citadel fort was built after the Hungarian Revolution in 1848 and is today a symbol of the city.
From here you will get fantastic views of the city with bars, cafés, and statues to spot along the way.
6. Rudas Baths
Address: Budapest, Döbrentei tér 9, 1013 Hungary
For the first traditional bathhouse on the 3 days in Budapest long weekend itinerary, we are heading to Rudas Baths. It’s located at the foothill of the Citadella close to the river Danube.
The Rudas Baths is a Turkish spa complex built-in 1550 during the Ottoman rule, consisting of 6 thermal and medicinal baths, 4 wellness pools, jacuzzi, sauna, massage therapies, and more. And as if that wasn’t enough, it comes complete with fantastic views of the city.
TIP: Whilst Tuesday 6am – 8pm are women only, on the weekends it is opened to both genders.
7. Legenda City Cruises
Address: Budapest, kikötő, es, Jane Haining rkp. 7, 1052 Hungary
Opening Hours: Daily 9am – 9pm
From the Legenda City Cruises dock, you will be able to catch a tour boat that will allow you to see the city from aboard the riverside. Once you’re on board, you’ll be provided with an audio-guided headset providing you with all of the information that you need about the landmarks that you will see on your journey.
You will also have the opportunity to be able to get the perfect landscape shots and selfies from the outside deck of the boat. You may have already seen the city from every other viewpoint, but the most impressive is aboard a boat after nightfall when Budapest is all lit up,
8. Szimpla Kert
Address: Budapest, Kazinczy u. 14, 1075 Hungary
Opening Hours: Saturday 12pm – 11pm, Sunday 9am – 11pm
Get your camera and belly ready, because next up on the 3 days in Budapest long weekend itinerary. we are heading to the eclectic and surreal Szimpla Kert.
Here you will find a farmer’s market, flea market, Kazinczy living library where you ‘rent a person’ and hear their story, live performances from various genres, and of course a bar, burgers, and tapas joint with vegetarian and non-alcoholic options. And if that wasn’t enough to entice you, there’s also a dog market and much more!
This will be the perfect vibrant spot to end your second day in Budapest weekend itinerary.
Day 3 of 3 Days In Budapest Long Weekend Itinerary
On the last day of our 3 days in Budapest long weekend itinerary, we are heading to the famous Jewish quarter before ending our weekend around Heroe’s Square.
Part 1 Map of Jewish Quarter:
Walking Map From New York Cafe To Szimpla Kert
1. New York Palace Café
Address: Budapest, Erzsébet krt. 9-11, 1073 Hungary
Opening Hours: 8am – 12am
We are starting day 3 of our 3 days in Budapest long weekend itinerary in luxury, with brunch at the famous New York Palace Café.
The New York Café is known as one of the most beautiful cafés in the world and with its 120 years of history and absolutely gorgeous decor, it is so easy to see why.
TIP: Bring a notebook. Many famous artist and poets have spent extensive time here, you never know when inspiration might just hit!
You can find the café’s menu here to fantasise about your meal before you arrive. I know you know exactly what I mean. But most importantly, don’t forget to make your reservation ahead of arrival, to avoid getting turned away on the day.
2. Dohány Street Synagogue
Address: Budapest, Dohány u. 2, 1074 Hungary
Opening Hours: Sunday – Thursday 10am – 6pm
After a morning of indulgence, we are now heading on a walk to Dohany Street Synagogue. It is indeed a synagogue that’s beautifully decorated in a lavish Moorish style, housing a museum in its basement, cemetery, and a memorial to honour the victims of the holocaust.
2a. Tree Of Life
Within the memorial gardens outside you will find the tree of life also known as Emanuel Tree. It is a beautiful tree with the names of the Hungarian Jewish victims inscribed on its leaves.
Be sure to head outside to view this.
3. Ruins Bar Budapest
Address: Budapest, Kazinczy u., 1075 Hungary
Opening Hours: Open Daily 24 Hours A Day
Next on our long weekend in Budapest itinerary, we are heading to Ruins Bar in Budapest. Even if you don’t drink, it’s worth a visit for a quick stroll and to grab a couple of pictures.
Unlike other bars that you may be accustomed to, this bar is uniquely designed in ruins and all sorts of random decorations, making it a popular hotspot for socialising.
4. Street Food Karavan Budapest
Address: Budapest, Kazinczy u. 18, 1075 Hungary
Opening Hours: Sunday 11.30am – 10pm
By now you’re probably ready for a pick me up, so we are heading to the Street Food Karavan Budapest food court. Here you will find Mexican food, langos burgers, hummus, falafels, vegan burgers, and more.
For the Muslim travellers abiding by a Halal diet, you will be catered for here with the range of vegetarian and vegan foods on offer.
5. Szimpla Kert
Address: Budapest, Kazinczy u. 14, 1075 Hungary
Opening Hours: Sunday 9am-11pm
Yes we were here last night to end our day 2 in Budapest, however we are coming back here today to experience Szimpla Kert by day. Today, on 3 day of our 3 days in Budapest long weekend itinerary you will have the chance to experience some of the many markets that this quirky little place have to offer.
As it’s the last day, you may even be able to pick up something to take back home with you.
Now we are heading onto the second part of our day located around Heroes Square.
Walking Map From Heroes’ Square to Szechenyi Thermal Bath
6. Heroes Square
Address: Budapest, Hősök tere, 1146 Hungary
First up on part 2 of our 3 days in Budapest long weekend itinerary, is Heroes Square. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site hosting the statues of the leaders of the 7 tribes who founded Hungary.
A selfie here before you return home, is mandatory.
TIP: If you’re visiting Budapest in winter, look out for the ice rink.
7. Vajdahunyad Castle
Address: Budapest, Vajdahunyad stny., 1146 Hungary
Opening Hours: Daily 10am – 5pm
Next up on our Budapest itinerary, we are taking a scenic walk into the lake city park to visit the Vajdahunyad Castle. This castle was built in 1896 and proudly shows the various Hungarian architectural styles over the years.
In present day, the castle is home to an Agricultural Museum housing many exhibits, that you can choose to visit. If you choose not to, that’s also fine as the grounds and surrounding park are beautiful enough on their own to keep you occupied.
8. Széchenyi Thermal Bath
Address: Budapest, Állatkerti krt. 9-11, 1146 Hungary
No Budapest itinerary will be complete without a visit to the Széchenyi Thermal Bath. If you are a fan of public baths, this one is for you. Built-in 1913, the Széchenyi Thermal Baths offer both an indoor and an outdoor pool, saunas, and steam rooms.
TIP: You can rent a towel and flip-flops here, or choose to bring your own.
If you are feeling adventurous, there is also a Beer spa that you can enjoy here.
Local Attractions
Although we are ending our 3 days in Budapest Long Weekend Itinerary here, if you are looking for more adventure, then be sure to check out these other local attractions.
- Budapest Zoo & Botanical Garden – Budapest, Állatkerti krt. 6-12, 1146 Hungary
- Museum of Fine Arts – Budapest, Dózsa György út 41, 1146 Hungary
- Capital Circus of Budapest – Budapest, Állatkerti krt. 12a, 1146 Hungary
- Kunsthalle Contemporary Art Museum – Budapest, Dózsa György út 37, 1146 Hungary
The Veiled Explorer Takeaway
And that’s it, we have come to the end of our 3 Days in Budapest Long Weekend Itinerary. With so much to see and do in Budapest, which attraction are you looking forward to visiting the most?
Leave a comment down below!
