Budapest in Hungary is a city I’d never visited but it did not disappoint. Unfortunately, this was another single day visit but I still managed to cram a lot into a short time. Of particular note was the House of Terror, a museum dedicated to the Nazi and Soviet occupation. Below is a guide to spending 24 hours in Budapest.
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A day in Budapest
I really didn’t have long here but I’m still glad I saw at least a little. An onward connection meant I couldn’t stay longer but did still manage to visit –
Fountain, Margit island
Hungarian Parliament
Széchenyi Bridge
Around Buda Castle
St Stephen’s Basilica
Shoes on the Danube – Emotive memorial to the 20,000 Jews executed on the banks of the Danube between 1944-45. Prisoners were stripped naked and turned to face forward before being shot, close range, in the back so they fell into the river. Shoes were valuable so were removed first.
House of Terror – Museum / Exhibition detailing the years of Nazi / Soviet occupation. Morbidly fascinating, thoroughly depressing. Well worth the visit.
A Brief History of Budapest
Budapest, often referred to as the “Paris of the East,” was born from the union of two historic cities: Buda and Pest. With a history dating back over a millennium, Budapest has witnessed the rise and fall of empires, from the Roman settlement of Aquincum to the glory days of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Throughout the centuries, it has been a melting pot of cultures, religions, and architectural styles, resulting in a unique blend of influences that define its character today.
Check our other summer guides and winter guides on the iRide website.
Exploring Budapest: Must-See Attractions
If you have more time in Budapest, below are some recommended places to visit.
- Buda Castle: Explore the majestic Buda Castle, perched atop Castle Hill and offering panoramic views of the city. Wander through its courtyards, admire its Gothic façade, and visit the Budapest History Museum and the Hungarian National Gallery housed within. Entrance fees vary depending on the exhibitions, starting from around €10 for adults.
- Chain Bridge: Walk across the iconic Chain Bridge, a symbol of Budapest connecting Buda and Pest across the Danube River. Marvel at its elegant design and panoramic views of the city skyline. Best of all, it’s free to stroll across and take in the breathtaking scenery.
- Hungarian Parliament: Admire the architectural splendor of the Hungarian Parliament, one of Europe’s most magnificent legislative buildings. Take a guided tour to explore its grand halls, impressive staircase, and the Hungarian Crown Jewels. Tickets for guided tours start from around €12 for adults.
- Széchenyi Thermal Bath: Relax and unwind at the Széchenyi Thermal Bath, one of the largest thermal spa complexes in Europe. Soak in its healing waters, indulge in spa treatments, and enjoy the various indoor and outdoor pools. Entrance fees start from approximately €20 for a full-day ticket with locker rental.
- Ruin Bars: Experience Budapest’s unique nightlife scene at its famous ruin bars, quirky establishments housed in derelict buildings and courtyards. Sip on cocktails, listen to live music, and soak up the bohemian atmosphere. Prices vary depending on the venue and drinks, but it’s generally affordable compared to Western European capitals.
- Margaret Island: Escape the hustle and bustle of the city at Margaret Island, a tranquil oasis in the heart of the Danube River. Rent a bike, stroll through its gardens, or relax by the musical fountain. Entrance to the island is free, with optional activities such as bike rental available for a small fee. There’s also a big music festival held here in summer.
Book a flight to Budapest
As a capital city, getting to Budapest is easy from most international airports. Use the form below to check from your location (note, if the departure is wrong, just use the link on the form). Don’t forget there are also train options from across the whole of Europe.
