How to Spend 2 Days in Budapest: A First Timers Itinerary

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If you’ve only got 2 days in Budapest, don’t worry—you can still soak up the city’s magic without feeling rushed! From its iconic thermal baths to its iconic ruin bars, Budapest is a city that blends history, charm, and a whole lot of fun.

To this day, Budapest remains one of my all-time favorite cities. Between the mouthwatering food, jaw-dropping architecture, and rich history, it’s impossible not to fall head over heels for this stunning destination! Let’s dive into how to spend 48 hours in Budapest.

The 13 Best Things to Do with 2 Days in Budapest

1. Free Walking Tour

Kick off your 2 days in Budapest with a free walking tour—it’s the perfect way to get a feel for the city while seeing its top sights! Your guide will share fascinating stories and local tips as you explore landmarks like St. Stephen’s Basilica, Vörösmarty tér, Buda Castle, and the Hungarian Parliament Building.

Stroll through cobblestone streets, lively squares, and hidden gems, all while soaking in the city’s history and charm. This is hands-down one of the best ways to get your bearings while taking in the city’s vibe. Just remember, the tour is free, but tipping your guide is a great way to show your appreciation!

If you want to do a self-guided tour at your own pace, you can download Rick Steve’s Audio Europe app—one of my favorite travel apps for Europe!

2. Fisherman’s Bastion

The Fisherman’s Bastion is one of the most iconic things to do in Budapest, offering jaw-dropping views of the Danube River, the Chain Bridge, and the Parliament Building. Built in 1905, this fairytale-like terrace features seven towers representing the Magyar tribes who settled in Hungary in 896.

Explore the Fisherman’s Bastion’s free entry and wander its scenic walkways, where you’ll find beautiful turrets, arches, and statues. Stop by one of the charming cafes to enjoy the stunning views, or pop into the small chapel dedicated to St. Matthias. For an even better view, head up to the upper observation deck for just HUF 1,000 (around $2.50 USD).

At night, the illuminated Parliament and Chain Bridge reflecting off the Danube create a truly magical atmosphere!

3. Gellért Hill Cave

Gellért Hill Cave, located just a short distance from Fisherman’s Bastion, is a hidden gem worth exploring during your 2 days in Budapest! To get there, climb up the hill and follow the path near the Citadella. Inside, you’ll discover a labyrinth of chambers filled with stunning stalagmites and stalactites. The main chamber is believed to have formed over a million years ago, making it the oldest part of the cave.

While exploring, you’ll also come across fascinating historical artifacts, including coins, pottery, and carved stone tablets. For a deeper dive into its cultural and spiritual significance, consider joining a guided tour to learn more about the cave’s rich history.

4. St. Stephen’s Basilica

St. Stephen’s Basilica is not only the largest church in Budapest but also one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Its grand entrance is adorned with fine art, including a striking bronze door featuring Saint Stephen, Hungary’s patron saint. Inside, prepare to be amazed by the breathtaking dome, the sanctuary vault, and the intricate altarpiece.

The basilica’s interior is also home to incredible works of art, including sculptures by Miksa Róth and frescoes by Károly Lotz. While admission is free, donations are appreciated. Since it is a place of worship, be sure to dress modestly if you plan to enter.

5. Great Market Hall

The Great Market Hall (aka Central Market Hall) is the largest and most gorgeous of all the market halls! It’s packed with local flavor, fun souvenirs, and all kinds of Hungarian treats. It’s open Monday to Saturday, from 6 AM to 5 PM (some stalls close a bit earlier), and Saturdays are extra special with Cultural Day—think live music, food tastings, and lively shows!

Wander through the colorful stalls where you can snack on Hungarian classics like goulash, stuffed cabbage, and the ever-popular kürtőskalács (chimney cake). And don’t skip the wine stalls—Hungary’s wines are a must-try! You’ll also find hand-crafted jewelry, leather goods, and so much more.

6. Chain Bridge

No 2 days in Budapest would be complete without a visit to the Chain Bridge. The bridge is a sight to see, connecting Buda and Pest over the beautiful Danube River. Completed in 1849, it was the first permanent bridge to link the two sides of the city, and it’s still a stunning sight today.

Spanning 1,312 feet, the bridge is supported by two massive stone lions guarding each end, adding to its majestic charm. Whether you’re crossing it or admiring it from the riverbanks, the Chain Bridge is a must-see!

7. Liberty Bridge

The Liberty Bridge is another stunning bridge that spans the Danube, connecting Buda and Pest. Built in 1894 by Adam Clark, it’s the third oldest bridge in the city, after the Chain Bridge and Elisabeth Bridge. The bridge is perfect for a stroll, offering stunning views of the river and city.

For a spectacular perspective, head to Fisherman’s Bastion on the Buda side—its elevated vantage point looks right over the Liberty Bridge. And if you’re a fan of night photography, the bridge comes alive when its lights illuminate the night sky, making it a photographer’s dream!

8. City Park

City Park is an absolute must on your 2-day Budapest itinerary! This expansive green space is home to Heroes’ Square, Vajdahunyad Castle, and the famous Szechenyi Baths.

Start by taking in the grandeur of Heroes’ Square, with its statues honoring Hungary’s historical heroes and the impressive Millennium Monument topped by the archangel Gabriel holding the Holy Crown. For a fairytale vibe, wander around Vajdahunyad Castle, a stunning 19th-century beauty that’ll have you feeling like royalty. And don’t miss the chance to unwind at Szechenyi Baths—the perfect place to relax in those famous thermal waters.

9. Széchenyi Thermal Bath

The Széchenyi Thermal Bath is a must-have experience! Located in the heart of City Park, this sprawling complex of thermal pools, saunas, and steam rooms is the perfect place to unwind and soak in the healing powers of Budapest’s famous mineral-rich waters.

As one of the largest medicinal baths in Europe, Széchenyi is fed by two natural thermal springs that have been providing relaxation and rejuvenation for centuries. You can dip into a variety of pools, ranging from 64°F to 100°F, each offering a different vibe to suit your mood. And if you’re looking for an even deeper sense of relaxation, you can enjoy their steam rooms and saunas, perfect for melting away the stresses of travel.

Admission starts at around 3,400 HUF (about $11 USD) for basic access, which includes the pools, saunas, steam rooms, and lockers. Trust me, this is the kind of experience you’ll want to add to your Budapest bucket list!

10. Ruin Bars

For a super unique nightlife experience in Budapest you have got to check out their ruin bars! Set in old, abandoned buildings, these bars are decorated with an eclectic mix of vintage furniture, statues, and antiques, giving them each their own quirky atmosphere.

Two of the most popular spots are Szimpla Kert, which has a relaxed vibe and stays open until 4 AM, and Instant-Fogas, a party hub with 18 bars, 7 dance floors, and a rave-like energy that goes until 6 AM. These bars offer a variety of drinks and activities, such as live music, movie screenings, and even pool tournaments!

If you’re up for some fun games, Noiret Billiard is a really cool underground bar with pool tables and more!

11. Budapest Eye

Hop on the Budapest Eye, the city’s tallest Ferris wheel, for jaw-dropping views of the Danube River and city skyline! At 213 feet tall, this ride takes you up in one of its 42 air-conditioned cabins, each with space for 6 people.

The 15-minute trip gives you scenic views of Budapest’s landmarks and has fun media screens with cool facts. The ride is just 3,000 HUF (about 10 USD), plus you get access to the observation deck too!

12. Danube River Cruise

There’s no better way to soak in Budapest’s beauty than from the Danube River! A Legenda City Cruises Sightseeing Night Cruise is an affordable and magical way to admire the city’s twinkling skyline, from the grand Parliament building to the charming castle district and even Margaret Island.

Want to level up the experience? Splurge on their dinner cruise, complete with a feast of Hungarian cuisine, drinks, live music, and a Folklore Dance Show. It’s the ultimate way to enjoy the city lights and a lively night out—talk about dinner with a view!

13. Enjoy the Local Cuisine

I was shocked, but Hungary ended up stealing the top spot as my favorite cuisine—even over Italy! With just two days in Budapest, there’s plenty of time to dive into the local food scene, and trust me, it’s worth it.

Start at Kiosk, where they serve classic Hungarian dishes with a modern twist. Their chicken paprikas? Chef’s kiss—you can’t visit Hungary without trying it!

For something more casual, hit up Karavan, an outdoor food truck paradise. I loved it so much, I went back twice! My favorite? The cheese Paquito—a Hungarian-style crunchwrap loaded with chicken, cheese sauce, nachos, cucumber, sour cream, and lettuce. So good! Hungarians have a way of sneaking veggies (especially cucumbers!) into everything, and I was here for it.

For a cozy breakfast or coffee stop, check out Vinyl & Wood—it’s as cute as it sounds!

Where to Stay in Budapest

For your 2 days in Budapest, you’re spoiled for choice with accommodation options that fit any budget or vibe. Here are some standout hotels right in the heart of the city:

• Emerald Hotel— Chic and contemporary with luxurious perks like a sauna, outdoor pool, and even bike rentals.
• Hotel Oktogon Haggenmacher— Spacious rooms, airport transport, and bike rentals make this a perfect stay.
• Stories Boutique Hotel— Trendy and drop-dead gorgeous. The reviews rave, and honestly, so will you once you see the photos!
• Emerald Downtown Suite— A boutique gem with free Wi-Fi and a cozy bar and lounge—perfect for winding down after a day of exploring.

For more flexibility, I’m a big fan of Booking.com—their lenient cancellation policy is a lifesaver. Or, check out VRBO, where you can snag stays starting as low as $30 a night!

On a super tight budget? Hostels and Couchsurfing are popular options in Europe. I’ve stayed in both during solo trips, and they’re perfect for saving cash and meeting fellow travelers!

Are you ready for an epic 2 days in Budapest?!

Budapest truly has it all—breathtaking views, rich history, delicious food, and unforgettable experiences around every corner. Whether you’re soaking in thermal baths, cruising the Danube at night, or munching on a Hungarian “crunchwrap,” this city knows how to make you fall head over heels. Two days might not feel like enough, but trust me, it’s plenty of time to create magical memories you’ll be dreaming about long after you leave.

Before you go, be sure to follow me on Insta @guidedbydestiny and check out some of my other blog posts:

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