3 Days in Budapest: Thermal Baths & Ruin Bars
Budapest is two cities cut in half by a massive river. It's grand during the day and slightly unhinged at night. Three days is perfect to soak in a thermal bath, explore the castle district, and drink in a bar made out of an abandoned building.
Day-by-Day Snapshot
Pest Side
Parliament Building, St. Stephen's Basilica, and the Jewish Quarter.
Buda Side
Fisherman's Bastion, Buda Castle, and Gellért Hill for sunset.
Baths & Parks
Széchenyi Thermal Bath, City Park, and Heroes' Square.
- •Forgetting to validate your paper transport ticket.
- •Getting ripped off by taxi drivers outside train stations.
- •Only going to Széchenyi (Gellért and Rudas are also amazing).
- •Clinking beer glasses (Hungarians don't do this due to an old legend).
May or September.
Hospital in the Rock, a secret nuclear bunker and hospital.
- District VII (Jewish Quarter): Best for nightlife, ruin bars, and food.
- District V: Near the Parliament, quieter and more upscale.
Getting Around
The tram network is great, especially Tram 2 along the river. Use the Bolt app for taxis; never hail one off the street.
Where to Eat
Lángos (fried dough with cheese and sour cream) at the Central Market Hall. Mazel Tov for a nice dinner in a ruin bar setting. Try Goulash at a local étkezde (canteen).
Common Questions
Which thermal bath is best?
Széchenyi is biggest, Gellért is most beautiful, Rudas has a rooftop pool.
Is the ruin bar scene just for young people?
No, they are fascinating spaces to see during the day or early evening for all ages.
Can I pay in Euros?
Some places accept them at a terrible rate. Use Hungarian Forint (HUF) or a card.
Explore More Travel Trends
Looking for something more unique for your next trip?