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Budapest is often labelled as “a cheap nightlife city” and yes, it’s relatively affordable for a night-out, but it’s so much more than that. I spent a wonderful 4 days in the city as part of a birthday trip and had an incredible time.
So, if you’re looking for a long weekend budget trip, Budapest truly is the perfect choice. Or, if you have longer then why not add on some day trips or visit other places in Hungary or nearby countries which connect so well. Here I’ll share everything you can get up to with 3 days in Hungary’s capital, Budapest, as well tips, guidance and add-ons for an extended trip.
Before you head on your trip to Budapest, make sure you know these 3 important things:
1 – No Euros: Hungary uses the Hungarian Forint (HUF) at approximately €1 to 350 HUF or £1 to 415 HUF. Some shops will take euros but their conversion rate is often terrible so it’s better to use local currency or your card where possible.
2 – Avoid Yellow “Euronet” ATMS: These independent ATMs are prominent in tourist areas and have terrible conversion rates and fees. Opt for official bank ATMs like OTP Bank, K&H Bank, and Erste Bank and always select “decline conversion” on screen.
3 – BudapestGO: Don’t waste your time or money with the overpriced tourist “Budapest Card”. Instead, use the official BudapestGO app for transport tickets, schedules or inclusive metro / tram tickets.
Here’s exactly how you can enjoy 3 days in Hungary’s capital with time for relaxing wandering, chilled food stops and to add other things you may want to do:
Day 1: Pest Side
Morning: Enjoy the stunning architecture of St. Stephen’s Basilica and the impressive Hungarian Parliament.
Afternoon: Walk along the ‘Shoes on the Danube Bank’ memorial and try some local food.
Evening: Head into District VII (the historic Jewish Quarter) and explore the popular ruin bars.
Day 2: Buda Side
Morning: Head up Castle Hill to explore the beautiful Fisherman’s Bastion, Matthias Church and Buda Castle.
Afternoon: Wander down to The Hospital in the Rock Nuclear Bunker Museum.
Evening: Get a view of the stunning Hungarian Parliament building glowing at night from the river during a Danube River Cruise.
Day 3: Heart of Budapest
Morning: Grab something local to eat at the Central Market Hall and wander around.
Afternoon: Take the historic, yellow Metro Line 1 to City Park. Explore the park and its historic buildings before soaking in the iconic open-air thermal pools of Széchenyi Thermal Baths.
If you’re looking for a fast-paced exploration of the city then here’s exactly how you can enjoy 2 full days in Budapest, exactly as I did:
Day 1:
Morning: Start the trip by wandering around Central Market Hall and getting something local to eat.
Late Morning: Walk over the iconic bridge to the Buda side of the city and stop by The Hospital in the Rock Nuclear Bunker Museum.
Afternoon: Head up to Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion and Matthias Church and enjoy.
Evening: Jump on a Danube Night River Cruise for an impressive view of the glowing Hungarian Parliament building at night.
Day 2:
Morning: Start with a morning stroll along the ‘Shoes on the Danube Bank’ memorial, check out local markets or boutique shops. Stop by St. Stephen’s Basilica.
Afternoon: Take the historic, yellow Metro Line 1 to City Park. Explore the park and its historic buildings before soaking in the iconic open-air thermal pools of Széchenyi Thermal Baths.
Evening: Head into District VII (the historic Jewish Quarter) and explore the popular ruin bars.
For more details including tips, costs and more, check out each stop below:
Booking: Tickets can be purchased on-site or online via their official site to skip the main queue.
2026 Cost: Prices vary massively. Check-out the official pricing list >>
Insider Hack: Respect the strict dress code (shoulders and knees must be covered). To get the best interior photos without thousands of tourists in your shot, walk all the way down the right aisle up toward the front altar.
Booking: None, it’s an open public space.
2026 Cost: 100% Free.
Insider Hack: This is a somber Holocaust memorial honoring the Jews ordered to take off their shoes before being shot into the river by the Arrow Cross militia. Do not climb on, sit inside, or take selfies with the bronze shoes. Locals often leave stones, candles, and flowers here out of respect.
Booking: No pre-booking or table reservations allowed.
2026 Cost: Entry is free, but beers inside the popular Szimpla Kert cost roughly 1,400–1,800 HUF (€3.50 – €4.50).
Insider Hack: Szimpla Kert is the most popular bar and an absolute maze of recycled junk, old cars, and neon art which becomes very packed after 9PM. Go early for photo opportunities or to explore and check out other, less popular bars too.
Booking: No booking needed.
2026 Cost: The lower terraces are completely free. The upper turrets require a ticket (1,200 HUF) during peak daytime hours (9AM to 7PM).
Insider Hack: For spectacular photos without the crowds, head up for sunrise and enjoy the morning golden hour that follows as the light hits the white stone perfectly.
Booking: Buy tickets at the ticket booth nearby to the church entrance.
2026 Cost: Standard entry for the church is 3,400 HUF (£8.20 / €9.60) and for the tower is an additional 4,000 HUF (£9.70 / €11.30).
Insider Hack: Discounts are available for family tickets, students or seniors.
Booking: Book a specific time slot via sziklakorhaz.eu as entry is via mandatory 60-minute guided tours only.
2026 Cost: 7500 HUF for Hungarian tours and €30 for English tours.
Insider Hack: This interconnected cave system served as an emergency hospital during WWII and a secret nuclear bunker during the Cold War. It stays consistently chilly inside (around 15°C / 59°F) year-round, so bring a light jacket or jumper.
Note: Photography is strictly banned inside.
Booking: None.
2026 Cost: Free.
Insider Hack: The ground floor is full of fresh meats, paprika, and produce so you’ll find lots of locals here. Head up to the second floor for souvenirs and street food.
Must Do: Try the traditional Lángos (fried flatbread) here, but make sure to look closely at prices as some stalls charge a steep tourist price.
Booking: None.
2026 Cost: Free.
Insider Hack: As well as a walk around the park, make sure to explore the Vajdahunyad Castle complex next to the park lake. It was originally built out of cardboard and wood in 1896 as a temporary exhibition but the locals loved it so much they rebuilt it out of permanent stone.
Booking: Book online at tickets.szechenyibath.hu or book at kiosks at the entrance.
2026 Cost: 11,000 to 17,000 HUF (€31 / £27 – €48 / £41) depending on the day of the week.
Insider Hack: You must have flip-flops and a towel. There is rental available but it’s pricey. To swim in the lanes you must also have a swimming cap but they caps are not required for the thermal baths.
I enjoyed doing everything in two days but this meant I had an extra day in Budapest. If have an extra day to fill, here’s some things you could do:
Buda Hills: just outside of the city is this unique area. Ride a historical child-run train (Gyermekvasút) through nature and explore further on foot. Check out the Elizabeth Lookout Tower which offers panoramic views of the city and further.
Margaret Island: Check out this car-free island park in the middle of the Danube River. It has gardens, historical ruins, a musical water fountain and even thermal baths.
Airport Transfer: Don’t take an unbooked taxi from the curb because they will undoubtably overcharge you. Use the clearly labelled 100E Airport Express Bus which goes directly into the centre of the city and costs only 2500 HUF (€7 / £6).
Accommodation Location for Budget Travellers: The first option is district VII (The Jewish Quarter) which is know to be the best for backpackers and social travellers as nightlife is within walking distance, hotels are well-priced and there’s great food options nearby. The other option is district V (Belváros) which is central and gorgeous, but slightly pricier.
The Lunch Menu: If you’re looking to eat local food on a budget, here’s a cheeky hack. Look for restaurants offering a Napi Menü (daily menu) which is usually between 12PM and 3PM. It is a fixed, 2 or 3 course local meal that’s way cheaper than dinner menus.
If budget is important then check out this insight into how much things might cost per day depending on your budget level:
| Travel Style | Accommodation | Food & Drink | Transport & Sighteeing | Total Per Day |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Budget |
8,000 - 16,000 HUF
(Hostel Dorms / Basic Private) |
5,000 - 8,000 HUF
(Market Halls & Local Cafes) |
2,000 - 6,000 HUF
(Metro / Tram & Free Views) |
15,000 - 30,000 HUF
(£36 / €42 - £72 / €84) |
| Mid-Range |
16,000 - 50,000 HUF
(Boutique Hotels / AirBnB) |
8,000 - 20,000 HUF
(Casual Cafes & Restaurants) |
6,000 - 20,000 HUF
(Public Transport / Paid Activities) |
30,000 - 90,000 HUF
(£72 / €84 - £220 /€255) |
| Luxury |
50,000 - 150,000+ HUF
(High-End Stays) |
20,000 - 50,000+ HUF
(Fancy Restaurants & Fine Dining) | 20,000 - 50,000+ HUF (Private Taxis & Tours) |
90,000 - 250,000 HUF
(£220 / €255 - £605 - €705+) |
Some of the delicious Hungarian food we had during our trip
Budapest is a wonderful city with a mix of things to do. So, if you find yourself exploring the historical parts of Hungary’s capital or checking out the nightlife scene, you’re guaranteed to enjoy a trip here.
For an accommodation recommendation, I stayed at: Cozy Studio in Central Budapest. The studio apartment was in a beautiful building, in a great location, had great facilities and was well-priced.
If Hungary is on your travel radar then be sure to check out some of my other posts below:
Welcome to The Untold Journeys, a travel blog with a focus on raw, authentic travels and finding those exciting hidden gems.
I’m here to share my experiences and stories to give you everything you need to explore the world and head on your own adventures.
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