Inspiration and great deals for your next low-carbon trips
Did you know that Budapest is accessible by train from many cities in France and even from Belgium? If you’re eager to explore this European capital, we’ve put together two itineraries for you: “The Must-Sees,” perfect for a first visit to the city, or “Off the Beaten Path,” to discover Budapest from a new perspective. Each itinerary can be completed in a single day! You can pick and choose ideas and create your own customized tour based on what you’re in the mood for. Budapest is easy to explore on foot, but if you prefer public transportation, you’ll have a wide choice of buses, trams, or the metro. One last reminder before you go: here, you pay in forints!
Before you leave, here's some information about the train system in Budapest:
If you had come here before 1873, you would have visited Buda and Pest. Today, although the two parts are separated by the Danube, they have been reunited. Each side of the river, however, retains its own identity. Start your day by visiting Pest, the lively, urban side of the city.
The Danube separates Buda and Pest
This square takes you on a journey through Hungarian history. Statues of great leaders from the past surround the Millennium Monument. Just behind it lies Varosliget Park, where you can explore Vajdahunyad Castle. This is also where you’ll find the Széchenyi Thermal Baths—the ones you see in most travel photos!
Next, head toward the Hungarian Parliament! On the way, you’ll pass through the 6th district, also known as the chic and artsy neighborhood. The Budapest Parliament is sort of the city’s symbol. Imagine a symphony of Gothic and Neo-Gothic styles that makes you look up in awe. If you want to tour it, it’s best to book a little in advance—the tour lasts about 45 minutes.
About 300 meters south of the Parliament building, on the Pest side of the river, you can see these 60 pairs of iron shoes lined up along the riverbank. They pay tribute to the victims—mostly Jewish—who were shot on the banks of the Danube by Arrow Cross militiamen in 1944–1945.
Continue along the Danube before heading back into the city to explore the Great Synagogue. The Dohány Street Synagogue is the largest in Europe, with nearly 3,000 seats, and an architectural gem in the Neo-Moorish style. Keep in mind that reservations are required to visit the synagogue.
It's time to head to Buda, the peaceful and historic side of the city, by crossing the famous Elisabeth Bridge.
If you're feeling a little hungry, check out our selection of restaurants.
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The Citadel stands at 235 meters, and the view from the top is simply epic! Built by the Habsburgs in the mid-19th century, this fortress has weathered many trials and tribulations. Today, it’s the perfect spot to get some fresh air and take in the view of the city.
And here's some good news: the Citadel reopened in early April 2026, after being closed for eleven years, with a new exhibition!
Keep walking uphill toward the castle district. Wander through this labyrinth of cobblestone streets. Baroque churches, artisan shops, and an authentic atmosphere await you. We recommend walking up Fortuna Street to the National Archives to admire the traditional houses with their colorful facades!
Budapest Castle
Once your walk is over, head to the Fishermen's Bastion for breathtaking panoramic views. With its white towers and terraced steps, it's like a living postcard.
Want to unwind after a day like that? Budapest is famous for its thermal baths. Please note: the Gellért Thermal Baths are closed for renovations until 2028. Head to the Rudas Baths, at the foot of Gellért Hill, or the Lukács Baths for a more authentic local experience.
Want to experience Budapest in a different way, away from the usual tourist routes? We’ve put together a day trip just for you that will immerse you in authentic Hungarian culture, away from the crowds.
This is where East meets West! It’s one of Budapest’s oldest streets, with its labyrinthine layout and colorful facades. The street is named after the Turkish poet Gül Baba. Here you can visit his mausoleum, which remains a major pilgrimage site for Muslims today. This mausoleum is one of the few remaining traces of the Ottoman occupation in Budapest.
For a taste of nature right in the heart of the city, head to Île Marguerite. With its parks and gardens, it's the perfect spot for a quiet break.
Discover one of the most intriguing places in Budapest! It’s like stepping behind the scenes of Hungarian history. Imagine a hospital built underground during World War II, preserved like a time capsule.
If a trip to the thermal baths wasn't enough to get you back on your feet, here's a chance to drink some thermal water! It has a unique taste, but it's good for your health. The good news is that you can bring your own water bottle and fill it up here for about €1.
Imagine a cemetery unlike any other, where bronze heroes from the communist era rest in peace. This park is like an open-air museum of postwar Hungarian history, with sculptures of leaders and symbols that transport you back to a bygone era.
Discover this sanctuary of knowledge in the heart of Budapest! With majestic halls, staircases that look like they came straight out of a novel, and an atmosphere that transports you to another world.
If you're looking for a unique way to learn more about Hungarian history, you've come to the right place! Here, you'll discover the art of distilling Hungary's iconic liqueur! Family anecdotes, well-kept production secrets, and a tasting that will tantalize your taste buds.
Welcome to a bargain hunter's paradise! Vintage items, vinyl records, retro watches—it's all here. Whether you're looking for something unique or just want to lose yourself in the charm of the past, this is the perfect place.
And if you're spending the night in Budapest, be sure to check out our A selection of eco-friendly accommodations in Budapest.
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