What to do in Budapest in one day?
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Published on 2/6/24, modified on 4/3/26
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Want to discover the Hungary's vibrant capital Budapest, a city straddling two banks (Buda and Pest), offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity, from Austro-Hungarian architecture to its iconic thermal baths.
And the good news is that you can get to Budapest by train from France without having to fly. There isn’t a direct train from Paris to Budapest, but don’t worry—we’ll show you the routes for a 100% rail city trip where culture, cuisine, and heritage come together!
You can get to Budapest by 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. with 1 to 2 transfers :
Tickets start at €63–77 if you book early! The average is €191 for a departure 30 days in advance, or €167 7 days in advance. You can book up to 6 months ago The trip!
Flexible hours : approximately 14–42 trains per day (frequency varies by day), with departures from 6:37 a.m. to 9:55 p.m. weekdays and weekends
Can you Budapest Keleti, the main train station, near the city center.
As usual, remember to book early to get the best prices (€63–77 instead of €191)!
In Budapest, there’s no chance of getting bored: this captivating capital, divided by the majestic Danube, will take you on a journey through Austro-Hungarian traditions and modernity. From the historic district of Buda to the bustling streets of Pest, every corner tells a story waiting to be discovered on foot or by public transit, from Tram 2 (the most beautiful in Europe) to Metro Line 1 (the oldest in continental Europe).
On the right bank, on the Buda, you'll discover the Budavár Palace (Hungarian National Gallery), the Fishermen's Bastion (7 turrets with breathtaking views of Pest), the Matthias Church Neo-Gothic and the Citadel (highest point). On the left bank, on the Pest : the Hungarian Parliament Neo-Gothic (45-minute tour with French audio guide), the Chain Bridge iconic, the Basilica of Saint Stephen, the Dohány Street Synagogue (the largest in Europe), and the famous Szimpla Kert (ruin bar in the Jewish quarter).
Budapest is the spa town with ~120 sources, making it one of Europe's top seaside destinations. The Széchenyi Thermal Baths (Europe's largest thermal pool, Neo-Baroque architecture), Gellért (historic baths) and Lukács offer unparalleled steam experiences. At the table, savor the Hungarian goulash traditional cuisine, local wines (Tokaji), and street food at Karavan. Stroll through the cafés in the Danube district, along the Marguerite Island (greenery in the heart of the city) or the Városliget Park with the castle of Vajdahunyad.
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