3 Days in Budapest Itinerary
Thermal baths, ruin bars, and Danube views with the family
Budapest is one of Europe's most underrated family destinations. The Hungarian capital straddles the Danube, with historic Buda on the hilly west bank and lively Pest on the flat east side. Three days gives you time to soak in thermal baths, explore Buda Castle, cruise the river, and experience the unique ruin bar culture. Best of all, Budapest offers exceptional value compared to Western European capitals.
Day 1: Buda Castle & Castle District
Day 1: Castle Hill & Matthias Church
Buda Castle & Castle District
Take the funicular up Castle Hill for stunning views over Pest. Wander the cobbled streets of the Castle District, exploring Matthias Church and Fisherman's Bastion.
Fisherman's Bastion
This fairy-tale terrace offers the best panoramic views of Parliament and the Danube. Early morning means fewer crowds.
Lunch in Castle District
Try traditional Hungarian goulash soup at a restaurant on Uri utca. Langos (fried dough) from a street vendor makes a fun snack.
Hospital in the Rock
Older children will find this underground hospital and nuclear bunker fascinating. Tours run hourly in English.
Danube Promenade Walk
Cross the Chain Bridge to Pest and walk along the Danube. Stop at the Shoes on the Danube memorial, a poignant but important history lesson.
Budapest Card
The Budapest Card (72-hour version around 65 GBP) includes unlimited public transport, free entry to museums, and discounts on baths. Good value if you plan to use public transport and visit museums.
Day 2: Thermal Baths & Parliament
Day 2: Szechenyi Baths & Pest Highlights
Szechenyi Thermal Baths
Hungary's most famous thermal bath complex sits in City Park. The outdoor pools are warm even in winter. Go early to avoid crowds.
City Park & Vajdahunyad Castle
Stroll through City Park to see the eclectic Vajdahunyad Castle. In summer there are pedalos on the lake; in winter it becomes Europe's largest outdoor ice rink.
Lunch at Great Market Hall
Head to the stunning 19th-century Great Market Hall. Ground floor has produce; upstairs has food stalls serving langos, sausages, and paprika-spiced dishes.
Hungarian Parliament Building
Book the English-language guided tour in advance. The Gothic Revival interior is spectacular.
Ruin Bar Experience
Budapest's ruin bars are converted abandoned buildings turned into quirky bars. Szimpla Kert is the most famous - it has a family-friendly courtyard open until 6pm on Sundays.
Baths Etiquette
Bring flip-flops for walking around the baths. Swimwear is required (you can rent or buy on site but it is cheaper to bring your own). Lockers require a deposit.
Day 3: Jewish Quarter & Danube Cruise
Day 3: History, Culture & River Views
Dohany Street Synagogue
Europe's largest synagogue is stunning inside. The memorial garden and museum tell important stories of Hungarian Jewish history.
Jewish Quarter Street Art Walk
The surrounding streets have incredible street art and murals. Wander Kazinczy utca and Kiraly utca for the best examples.
Lunch in Jewish Quarter
Try Mazel Tov for excellent Israeli-inspired food in a beautiful garden setting, or Karcsi for traditional Hungarian fare.
St Stephen's Basilica
Climb the tower for 360-degree city views. The basilica houses Hungary's most sacred relic - the mummified right hand of King Stephen.
Danube River Cruise
End your trip with an evening cruise to see Parliament, Buda Castle, and the bridges illuminated. Book a cruise with drinks or dinner included.
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Build My Packing ListPractical Tips for Budapest with Kids
- Currency - Hungary uses the Forint (HUF). Roughly 400 HUF to 1 GBP. Cards widely accepted but carry some cash for markets.
- Public transport - Excellent metro, tram and bus network. Children under 6 travel free. Buy tickets before boarding and validate them.
- Language - Hungarian is challenging but English is widely spoken in tourist areas and by younger people.
- Tipping - 10-15% is customary in restaurants. Often added automatically so check the bill.
- Safety - Budapest is very safe for families. Watch for pickpockets on busy trams and at tourist spots.
- Water - Tap water is safe to drink. Bring refillable bottles.
Where to Stay with Kids
Best areas for families:
- District V (Belvaros) - Central Pest, walking distance to most attractions, plenty of restaurants
- District VII (Jewish Quarter) - Lively atmosphere, great food scene, can be noisy at night near ruin bars
- District I (Castle District) - Quieter, beautiful, but fewer restaurants and more uphill walking
- District VI (Andrassy Avenue) - Elegant area with good metro links, family-friendly neighbourhood feel
Apartment Rentals
Budapest has excellent value apartments sleeping 4-6 people for 60-100 GBP per night. Look for ones with washing machines for longer stays.
Budget Guide
Budapest offers exceptional value. A family of four can expect:
- Accommodation - 50-100 GBP/night for a central apartment or family room
- Meals - 40-70 GBP/day for all meals (less if using markets and supermarkets)
- Attractions - 50-80 GBP/day for family entrance fees
- Transport - 15-20 GBP for a 72-hour family travel card
Serious Savings
Budapest is 30-50% cheaper than Paris or London. Treat yourselves to experiences that would cost double elsewhere.
Getting There
Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport is well-connected to the UK with direct flights from London, Manchester, Edinburgh and other cities. Flight time is around 2.5 hours. Budget airlines like Ryanair and Wizz Air offer competitive fares.
The airport bus 100E runs directly to the city centre (Deak Ferenc ter) in 35 minutes for around 3 GBP. Taxis to the centre cost 25-35 GBP.
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