Arriving in Budapest
Hi there, fellow travelers! I recently had the opportunity to spend 24 hours in the beautiful city of Budapest and let me tell you, it was an experience I will never forget. From the stunning architecture to the delicious food, Budapest has something to offer for everyone. So, if you only have a day to explore this magical city, here’s how I suggest you spend it.
Start your day with a delicious breakfast
As soon as I arrived in Budapest, I headed straight to the famous New York Café for breakfast. This grand café is known for its stunning interior and delicious food. I highly recommend trying their Hungarian-style scrambled eggs and freshly baked pastries. Trust me, it’s the perfect way to start your day in Budapest.
Take a stroll along the Danube River
After breakfast, I decided to take a leisurely walk along the Danube River. The views of the Buda Castle and the Parliament building were absolutely breathtaking. I also stumbled upon the Shoes on the Danube Bank memorial, a powerful tribute to the victims of the Holocaust. It was a somber yet moving experience that I highly recommend.
Explore the historic Buda Castle
No visit to Budapest is complete without a visit to the Buda Castle. I took the funicular up to the castle and was greeted with panoramic views of the city. The castle itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and houses several museums and galleries. I spent a few hours here, learning about the history of Hungary and admiring the beautiful architecture.
Indulge in some traditional Hungarian cuisine
For lunch, I made my way to the Great Market Hall, the largest and oldest indoor market in Budapest. The market is a food lover’s paradise with stalls selling everything from fresh produce to traditional Hungarian dishes. I couldn’t resist trying the famous goulash soup and it did not disappoint. Make sure to also grab some lángos, a deep-fried dough topped with savory or sweet toppings, for a quick snack.
Relax at the Széchenyi Thermal Bath
One of the highlights of my day in Budapest was visiting the Széchenyi Thermal Bath. This sprawling complex is the largest medicinal bath in Europe and offers a unique experience. I spent a couple of hours soaking in the thermal pools, trying out the different saunas, and even indulging in a massage. It was the perfect way to relax and recharge before continuing my adventures.
Watch the sunset from the top of St. Stephen’s Basilica
As the day was coming to an end, I made my way to St. Stephen’s Basilica, one of the most iconic landmarks in Budapest. I climbed the 364 steps to the top of the dome and was blown away by the panoramic views of the city. It was the perfect spot to watch the sunset and take in the beauty of Budapest.
Experience the vibrant nightlife
Budapest is known for its vibrant nightlife and I couldn’t leave without experiencing it for myself. I headed to the famous ruin bars, unique bars and pubs that are built in abandoned buildings and decorated with quirky and colorful items. I had a blast hopping from bar to bar, trying out different cocktails and soaking up the lively atmosphere.
End the day with a river cruise
To end my day in Budapest, I took a night cruise along the Danube River. The city was beautifully lit up and it was a great way to see all the major landmarks from a different perspective. I also got to enjoy a traditional Hungarian folk show on board, complete with music and dancing. It was the perfect way to end my 24 hours in Budapest.
In conclusion
Budapest is a city that will capture your heart in just 24 hours. With its rich history, delicious food, and vibrant nightlife, it’s a must-visit destination for any traveler. So, if you find yourself with just a day to explore this gem of a city, follow my itinerary and I guarantee you’ll have a memorable experience. Happy travels!
