Are you planning to spend one day in Budapest? Wondering where to go in Budapest in this short time?
If so, then you have come to the right place. I have visited Budapest Hungary several times and loved every minute I was there.
The city is divided by the romantic Danube River and connected by the iconic Chain Bridge. You can visit the historic, hillside Buda on the eastern banks and the trendy and hip Pest on the western banks.
So, are you looking for some ideas on what to see in Budapest on your short trip? Well, then keep reading my Ultimate One Day in Budapest Itinerary!
One Day in Budapest: The Ultimate Itinerary
Adam Clark Square At The Chain Bridge
If you are traveling to Budapest for the first time, then one of the top things to keep in your one day Budapest itinerary is the Adam Clark Square.
Adam Clark Square houses the limestone sculpture “0.” This milestone Kilometer 0 monument is the reference point from which all road distances to Budapest from throughout Hungary are measured.
Start your day with this sightseeing spot that can be reached from the Chain Bridge on the Buda side.
The Chain Bridge is an architectural marvel and a crown jewel of Budapest. Take a few minutes to admire its ornateness, including the lions on the bridge.
Although currently, many bridges connect Buda to Pest over the Danube River, the Chain Bridge is the original and most-visited one.
Check Out: City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour & Extras
Check Out: 3-Hour Orientation Walking Tour of Buda and Pest
Romantic Castle Hill
Most of the one day Budapest itineraries will tell you to include a walk on Castle Hill and I agree.
After exploring Adam Clark Square, you can ride the funicular to reach Castle Hill or walk, if you are up for an adventure.
However, keep in mind that the hill is extremely steep so it is not an easy task.
I took a bus to the top of the hill and found it the best way to save time and energy, especially if you have only one day in Budapest.
Once you reach the top, explore the beautiful cobblestoned streets of Budapest. Since you will be walking a lot, wear closed-toe shoes for the day.
If you will be in Budapest for a longer period, read my two days in Budapest itinerary.
Check Out: 3-Hour Grand City Tour and Castle Walk
Check Out: Buda Castle District Walking Tour
Fisherman’s Bastion Offers Jaw-Dropping Vistas
The next stop on your one day Budapest itinerary should be the Fisherman’s Bastion.
It is a walking distance from Castle Hill and offers the most gorgeous views of the Danube River and the Hungarian Parliament Building.
Since this is one of the most popular sights to see in Budapest, I would recommend that you arrive early here else it can get a little crowded.
Look for the huge statue of St Stephen I of Hungary riding his horse, in the middle of Fisherman’s Bastion.
Check Out: Grand Sightseeing Bike Tour
Check Out: Evening Castle Hill Tour with Fishermen’s Bastion
Do Not Miss Visiting Matthias Church
One of the best places to see in Budapest is the Matthias Church.
This roman catholic church is named after one of Hungary’s most beloved medieval kinds and is one of the top Budapest must-see sights.
The church was once invaded by Turks and used as a worship place. As a result, you will still find Turkish architecture here.
There is an entry fee to visit this church, but so worth it. I would recommend that you visit early in the morning here if you have only one day in Budapest.
Check Out:: Classical Music Concerts in Matthias Church
Check Out: Castle District Walk with Matthias Church Entry
Buda Castle Is Worth A Stop
If you have only one day in Budapest, then one of the best things to do in Budapest is to explore the famous Buda Castle.
Also referred to as the Royal Palace, Buda Castle is a part of Castle Hill.
The castle is regal and has a beautiful architecture. You can also witness the changing of the guard in front of the Presidential Palace which takes place every hour.
Apart from the beautiful architecture, you can also visit the museums inside Buda Castle – the Budapest History Museum and the Hungarian National Gallery.
Trust me, you should spend at least an hour at Buda Castle on your Budapest trip.
Check Out: Buda Castle Walking Tour with St. Stephen’s Hall
Check Out: Buda Castle Cave Tour
Bathe With The Hungarians To Experience Their Culture
One of the best things to do in Budapest to enjoy the local culture is soaking in the warm thermal waters that flow through this European city.
Mineral water has curative and restorative properties for those suffering from degenerative diseases.
When my family and I visited Budapest, a local suggested we visit the Rudas Medicinal Baths and Spa.
It is on the Buda side of the River Danube and has a clean and affordable spa to enjoy.
You can choose from a variety of services here. I loved the “contrast bath” in the Wellness Section that helps in revitalizing sore and tired muscles.
That’s not all, they also have a rooftop panoramic pool that offers spectacular views of Budapest’s Old Town.
Trust me, you can easily spend an hour or two here.
Check Out: Rudas Spa Wellness and Dining Experience
Check Out: Széchenyi Spa Full Day with Optional Pálinka Tour
Visit The Shoes On The Danube For A Harrowing Reminder
On your Budapest 1 day itinerary, keep aside some time for the Danube monument that is located on the Pest side of the city.
You will find here 60 Pairs of men’s, women’s, and children’s shoes made out of cast iron lining the pedestrian walkway, each an authentic replica of a pair of 1940s shoes.
The horrific history behind this monument is that Jewish victims were lined and then shot into the Danube River during World War II.
They were told to remove their shoes before this as shoes were quite valuable at that time.
In the evening, you will find locals and tourists gathering by this monument where they light candles and have a moment of silence for the victims.
Check Out: Daytime Sightseeing Boat Cruise
Check Out: City Highlights Cruise with Welcome Drink
Do Not Miss Out On The Spectacular Hungarian Parliament Building
Of course, when you have only 1 day in Budapest, you cannot afford to miss out on visiting the iconic Hungarian Parliament Building.
It is a five-minute walk from the Shoes on the Danube Monument and a tour of this building is a must-do in Budapest.
One of the top Budapest sightseeing spots, the Parliament is a great place to learn about Hungary’s history and marvel at the Hungarian Crown Jewels.
Do keep in mind that this is one of the popular Budapest tourist attractions so you might have to wait in line to buy the tickets.
This is why it is best that you purchase your entry tickets for this Budapest sight well in advance.
Check Out: Grand City Tour with Parliament Visit
Check Out:: City Center Walking Tour
Visit the Grand Market Hall For Everything Paprika!
You should visit the Grand Market Hall when exploring Budapest in 1 day.
It is often called Central Market because of its central location in Budapest and is 1.5 miles from the Hungarian Parliament.
The market is three floors full of dizzying options of fresh fruits, vegetables, and paprika.
Since Hungary is one of the largest producers of paprika in the world, you can take some home as a souvenir. You can also get delicious Hungarian wine here.
Eat some Hungarian food at one of the restaurants on the second floor or enjoy a guided tour of the market, your choice.
Check Out: Food and Wine Tastings Tour
Check Out: Budapest: Private Food Tour – 10 Tastings with Locals
Visit Vaci Street For Ultimate Shopping And Dining
One of the best sightseeing spots to explore if you have only one day in Budapest is Vaci Street.
It is the perfect place to visit for shoppers and is filled with upscale cafes, shops, restaurants, and more.
You can enjoy coffee here and people-watch or find the perfect European outfit for yourself.
Trust me, Vaci Street should be a part of your Budapest 1 day itinerary to experience the European atmosphere.
Check Out: 1.5-hour Private Kick-Start Tour with a Local
Check Out: 3-Hour Private Walking Tour with Route Options
Where to Stay in Budapest
Aria Hotel Budapest by Library Hotel Collection – For a luxury stay, I would recommend Aria Hotel Budapest by Library Collection.
Enjoy panoramic views of downtown Budapest and easy access to a spa center featuring a hammam, saunas, and a pool.
Stories Boutique Hotel – Are you looking for a mid-range hotel to stay in Budapest? Then, Stories Boutique Hotel is perfect for you. A
It is a 4-star hotel, quite reasonably priced, and is close to most attractions such as Dohany Street Synagogue, Blaha Lujza, Hungarian State Opera, and more.
The Hive Party Hostel Budapest – If you are planning to spend a few nights in Budapest as a solo traveler, then the Hive Party Hostel Budapest is a good choice.
They have options of both dorm beds and private rooms and are perfect for partygoers. It is also located close to major attractions.
Packing Tips For Your One Day In Budapest
My article on How To Pack Lightly is full of packing tricks on how to maximize your packing space!
This unisex RFID-blocking concealed travel pouch is lightweight and comes in several colors.
These RFID sleeves would be handy to prevent identity theft.
This Anker high-speed phone charging battery is the exact one I carry with me on all of my trips.
My daughter gifted me with this FugeTek Selfie Stick and Tripod for my birthday. It has Bloothtooth connectivity so it is very easy to use.
And this world traveler adapter kit can charge several devices at the same time.
These Bagail packing cubes are the exact ones I use whenever I travel.
I never leave home on a trip without my Bobble filtration bottle. The 18.5-ounce size is perfect for travel and it will fit nicely in the pocket of a backpack or your purse.
You can find the carbon filter replacements here.
You will want to bring a backpack or daypack with you to store snacks, your water bottle, phone, extra clothes, etc.. This foldable water-resistant backpack would be great.
This antitheft backpack has a charging port, is water-resistant, and can comfortably carry up to a 15.6″ laptop.
Mostly everyone is familiar with the Skechers brand, and these Air Run high fashion sneakers come in a lot of colors to match your outfits and are still affordable
I highly recommend these Vionics adjustable strap orthotic sandals.
I also sometimes bring along my Vionic Tides flip-flops. The toe post is so comfortable which makes wearing these super comfortable.
If experiencing culture at the Hungarian baths is on your list you will want to bring along swimwear. This lightweight men’s swim trunk is quick-drying and affordable.
I like this woman’s one-piece bathing suit. It has a moderately high leg cut and is lined for modesty’s sake. It has a built-in bra and comes in neat colors.
This fast-drying, lightweight, and very absorbent towel is the perfect solution. You choose what color and size you wish and it is extremely affordable.
You may want to bring along a wet-dry bag. This wet-dry bag with handles is a good option.
Or you could opt for this mesh swim backpack bag that has separate areas for dry and wet items.
Bring a lightweight scarf or shawl. Scarves and shawls are very popular in Europe and Budapest is no different. Both men and women wear scarves, both decoratively and as a layering piece to keep warm.
These unisex polarized sunglasses come in a lot of lens colors and frame designs and are extremely affordable too.
If you are fond of the aviator-style of sunglasses these polarized aviators may interest you.
If you need new luggage, this expandable soft side spinner luggage is affordable and comes in lots of colors. If you like hard-sided better, then you may favor this hard-sided luggage set better.
Both sets come with TSA approved zipper locks and 8 wheels per piece.
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Read here for How To Survive Long Haul Flights.
How To Get Around In Budapest
By subway. Did you know that Hungary’s capital city Budapest is home to mainland Europe’s first subway system? It was constructed in 1896 to celebrate Hungary’s millennium celebration.
Today Hungarians and tourists alike use the Millenium subway system to get around town.
By Tram or trolly. Budapest has an extensive tram and trolly system operating in the city since 1866. It is one of the largest in the world.
Budapest buses stop all over the city. If you plan to hop on and off frequently avoid the express buses.
Try a ride on the cable railway. The funicular runs from the foot of Castle Hill to the top of the Castle District.
Quick Tips For Your One Day In Budapest
Before you leave home, contact your credit card company and check to see if your credit card does or does not have foreign transaction fees.
If it does, inquire about the possibility of applying for one that does not carry foreign transaction fees attached to it (the small fee charged you whenever you use your card out of your home country.)
Also, remember to notify your bank of the dates you will be out of the country.
When you visit an ATM in Hungary, check to be sure it is on the same network as your bank, so you are not charged a transaction fee every time you withdraw cash.
Withdrawing larger amounts of money will help you limit bank transition fees. Hungary’s form of currency is the forint.
Purchase advanced tickets to attractions whenever possible. Admission tickets purchased online are usually offered at a discount, and you will save a lot of time waiting in lines to buy tickets at the individual attractions.
Your one day in Budapest will be less stressful when you have your plan and can pace yourself and not have to worry about the availability of tickets at each location you wish to visit.
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