Budapest is just a quick 2.5-hour train ride from Vienna and one of Europe’s more affordable cities, making it the perfect destination for a weekend getaway. With grand architecture that sometimes feels like Vienna, but a vibe that’s entirely its own, this city has everything you need for a few days of exploring, eating, and even relaxing.

Checking in at Matild Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel right in the center of Budapest. It’s one of the most stunning and comfortable places to stay in the city, and its location makes it super easy to explore on foot, with many of the city’s major landmarks were just within walking distance.

When your feet need a break or you want to venture somewhere further out, Budapest’s public transport is easy to navigate and very affordable with single tickets starting at just 450 Forint.

Day I

Kick off your Budapest weekend at Pantry Brunch & Coffee, where you build your own brunch plate from a selection of sweet and savoury options. Once you’re fueled up, head straight to the Hungarian Parliament Building, that is widely considered one of the most beautiful parliament buildings in the world and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

From there, make your way across the river to Buda Castle on Castle Hill. It’s a whole complex, so give yourself time to explore the castle itself, the Hungarian National Gallery, and the Budapest History Museum. It’s a great intro to Hungary’s past, and the views from the hill are well worth the climb too. On your way back down, stop by Fisherman’s Bastion for some more panoramic views over the Danube and the city skyline.

In the evening, book a table at Mazel Tov, a beautifully designed, plant-filled space serving Mediterranean and Middle Eastern fusion dishes. After dinner, head to The Duchess, the hidden rooftop bar above Matild Palace, for handcrafted cocktails with a view of the city at night.

Day II

Start your second day on a more relaxed note with brunch at Szimply, a cozy, hip café known for its creative all-day breakfast menu. Afterward, walk over to the Hungarian State Opera House, a neo-Renaissance gem that’s been captivating opera and ballet lovers for over 130 years.

From there, stroll along Andrássy Avenue, one of Budapest’s most elegant boulevards, lined with 19th-century buildings, boutiques, and cafés. While you’re in the area, stop by the House of Terror Museum for a look at Hungary’s turbulent 20th-century history under Nazi and Soviet regimes. Spend the afternoon at the Hungarian National Museum, home to one of the country’s most significant historical collections. If you’re in the mood for something more low-key afterward, relax in Liberty Square, one of the city’s most picturesque green spaces.

In the evening, get ready for dinner and drinks. Start with a cocktail at KAA Mixology, a stylish, jungle-themed bar with a creative menu, then make your way to Budapest’s most iconic ruin bar, Szimpla Kert. Whether you go by day or night, this labyrinth of mismatched furniture, street art, and buzzing atmosphere is a must-see and a great way to experience Budapest’s vibrant nightlife.

Day III

After a longer night out the evening before, you might want to take it slow on your final day in Budapest. Start with brunch at Stika Gastropub, a popular local spot with a hearty, delicious breakfast menu and visit the nearby St. Stephen’s Basilica,
where you can climb to the top of the dome an incredible panorama of the city. Spend the rest of your morning walking along the Danube Promenade, where you can stop at the Shoes on the Danube Bank memorial, then cross the Liberty Bridge, one of the city’s most charming and scenic footbridges.

In the afternoon, browse some of Budapest’s markets such as The Great Market Hall (Nagyvásárcsarnok), the city’s largest and oldest indoor market and a great address to pick up local specialties and handmade souvenirs. If it’s a Sunday, make your way back to Szimpla for the Szimpla Farmers’ Market, a laid-back gathering of local vendors inside the famous ruin bar with live music and vintage treasures.

If time allows, treat yourself to one last classic Budapest experience: a soak at one of the city’s historic thermal baths. Gellért Baths, inside the iconic Hotel Gellért, is a relaxing and beautiful spot to wind down before heading home. For a final toast before heading home, stop by Gdansk, a bookshop-bar hybrid serving craft beers, vodka shots, and pierogi in a cozy, literary setting. It’s the perfect ending to a full weekend in one of Europe’s most captivating cities.