Budapest in 3 days: the best sights
Weekend in Budapest – Combining Formula 1 & a Citytrip
Thursday: Roadtrip to Hungary
Friday: Highlights of Buda Side
We started the day by taking the metro to Batthyány tér and walked straight to the Széchenyi Chain Bridge. It looked stunning in the morning sun! From there, we continued to the beautiful Fisherman’s Bastion, with a view of the Parliament – a very photogenic spot.
Next, we visited the impressive Matthias Church and wandered through the charming Tárnok utca, full of colourful façades. Using the Budavári Sikló funicular, we reached the Royal Palace (Buda Castle), where we enjoyed the views and learned a bit of history in the museums.
After visiting the Castle Garden Bazaar, we walked across the Elisabeth Bridge towards Gellért Hill. We climbed up to the Citadel, stopping at the Gerard Monument along the way. Then we crossed the Liberty Bridge – a great place for photos of the famous yellow trams – and ended the day at the Great Market Hall (Nagy Vásárcsarnok), a huge indoor market full of food and souvenirs. (Tip: it’s closed on Sundays.)
Saturday: Rain, History, and a River Cruise
On Saturday morning, we had tickets for a guided tour of the Hungarian Parliament (Kossuth Lajos tér), but unfortunately, we arrived just too late. So, make sure to be on time! Luckily, the outside of the building is already very impressive.
We then walked along the Shoes on the Danube Bank, a moving memorial, and passed by Liberty Square, the Hungarian National Bank, and St. Stephen’s Basilica. Due to a heavy downpour in the afternoon, we took it easy for a while.
In the evening, the weather cleared up, and we went on a boat cruise along the Danube – highly recommended! The city looks beautiful when lit up at night, and the view from the water is magical.
Sunday: Two Plans, One City
Sander and our father left early for the F1 circuit for the main race, while Tessa and her friend continued exploring Budapest.
They walked along the grand Andrássy Avenue towards Heroes’ Square and enjoyed the atmosphere at Vajdahunyad Castle. In the afternoon, they visited the Budapest Zoo & Botanical Garden, finishing with a relaxed walk on Margaret Island in the middle of the Danube – full of music, fountains, and shady spots.
Monday: Return trip & a successful combination
On Sunday evening, we started the journey back home, stopping overnight in Brno to break up the trip. Combining Formula 1 with a city trip worked surprisingly well! We shared the driving, and it was very convenient that Sander and our father could be dropped at the circuit by Tessa and her friend – public transport to the F1 venue is a bit tricky.
Budapest really surprised us: beautiful architecture, a relaxed vibe, and lots of green spaces. Even with the heat and occasional showers, it was a successful weekend!