Budapest—where history meets charm, and every corner has a story to tell! With just two days to soak it all in, get ready for an adventure packed with grand castles, scenic bridges, mouthwatering Hungarian treats, and plenty of fun for the whole family. But first, head over to our blog to explore Central Europe in 14 Days, with ready-to-use itineraries, tried-and-tested recommendations, and hidden tips and tricks!
Back to Budapest, do you the best part about this blog? We’re doing it all without breaking the bank—think free sights, affordable eats, and picture-perfect moments at every turn. Let’s dive in!
Day 1: Arrival, Castle Views, and a Unique Dining Experience
4:15 PM – Touchdown in Budapest!
After a scenic train ride from Prague, we roll into Budapest-Déli Station, stretching our legs and marveling at how ridiculously grand the city already looks. Oh wait, you also need a plan for Prague? No worries, read up our blog for the Ultimate 2-day Prague Itinerary! A short walk later, you can check into Hotel Ibis Castle Hill, where we dropped our bags and let out a collective sigh of relief.
(Pro tip: There’s a Prima Market right behind the hotel for last-minute snack emergencies.)
7:30 PM – Dinner in a Train? Yes, Please!
Tonight’s dinner is anything but ordinary. Take a quick stroll to Vagon Étterem, a restaurant inside a real vintage train car. The kids will be fascinated, and let’s be honest, so would we! Dig into burgers, roasted duck legs, and fries while pretending you are on a secret spy mission (because why not?).
If you’re in the mood for something more Hungarian, Marischka is just a short walk away and serves delicious Chicken Paprikash and Goulash. Either way, finish the night satisfied and get ready for a deep slumber.
Take a walk up the Buda hill to burn off the calories, only to fill them back at the legendary Ruszwurm Confectionery, open since 1827, and having served even Queen Sisi, wife of the Habsburg King of Hungary, Franz Joseph. Don’t forget to order their signature apple strudel, heart cookies, and cream cake.
9:00 PM – A Walk through Castle Hill!
After a slow walk back, admiring the beautiful Matthias Church and Fisherman’s Bastion in the night time (which is FREE after 9 PM, by the way!).
Originally built in the 13th century, Matthias Church has witnessed Hungary’s grandest moments, from royal coronations to battles that reshaped Budapest. Its Neo-Gothic makeover in the 19th century gave it the stunningly intricate roof and colorful stained-glass windows we see today.
Built between 1895 and 1902 to celebrate Hungary’s 1000th anniversary, the Fisherman’s Bastion was named after the fishermen who once defended this part of the city walls. Its seven towers represent the seven Hungarian tribes that founded the nation, offering fairy-tale views over the Danube and Parliament.
Day 2: Castles, Bridges, and a River Cruise
9:00 AM – Breakfast Like a Local
Bright-eyed and coffee-fueled, head to 0-Point Cafe, a cozy little spot serving up Hungarian-style Langos. Savor your breakfast and mentally prepare for a day of walking and wonder.
10:00 AM – The Mighty Buda Castle
Time for some royalty vibes! Take Bus 16 to Clark Ádám Square and make a crucial decision—walk up 20 minutes of steep steps (free but sweat-inducing) or take the scenic Buda Castle Funicular for a quick ride up (3,000 Ft per adult, 2,000 Ft per kid). Alternatively, take the Buda Castle buggy (20 euros per person) ride up the mountains, and we chose the latter because let’s be real, our knees need to survive the rest of the day.
Once at the top, explore the open-air courtyards of Buda Castle (free!), gaze at the Turul Statue (a giant mythological bird that gives off serious Harry Potter vibes), and admire the grand Sándor Palace, where the Hungarian president hangs out.
11:45 AM – Changing of the Guards
At 12 PM sharp, witness the ever-so-serious Changing of the Guards at Sándor Palace—a short but entertaining spectacle that keeps the kids mesmerized. Bonus points if they try to mimic the stiff guard stance.
12:30 PM – Walking the Iconic Chain Bridge
Time to head to the Pest side of Budapest via the Széchenyi Chain Bridge, the first permanent bridge connecting Buda and Pest. Built in 1849, the bridge transformed the city into a unified capital. Designed by English engineer William Tierney Clark, it was a marvel of 19th-century engineering, with massive iron chains supported by stone pillars. Though it was destroyed in World War II, the bridge was meticulously rebuilt in 1949 and remains one of Budapest’s most iconic landmarks today.
Take at least 100 photos, pretend you’re in a dramatic movie scene, and finally land on the other side, where food awaits!
1:30 PM – Market Feasting at Central Market Hall
Lunch is a feast at Central Market Hall, where we grab Lángos (Hungarian fried dough with cheese), Kolbász (spicy paprika sausage), and a hearty bowl of Goulash. Souvenir shopping happens here too—fridge magnets, hand-painted ceramics, and paprika spice packs made it into our bags.
3:00 PM – Option 1: Ruin Pubs or Option 2: Rest & Relax
Option 1: If energy levels are still high, pop into Szimpla Kert, Budapest’s most famous ruin pub, where you can sip on craft beer amidst eclectic decor (think bathtubs for seating and mismatched furniture).
Option 2: If little feet start to drag, head back to the hotel for a well-earned nap.
6:30 PM – Sunset Cruise on the Danube
The grand finale—a Danube River Cruise! We board at Batthyány Square, finding the perfect spot to see Parliament, Buda Castle, and the glowing bridges. The kids are enchanted, the parents are blissfully relaxed, and Budapest? Budapest is putting on its best show.
9:30 PM – Dinner at Jewish Town
If you hadn’t already visited the famous ruin pubs of Budapest, now is when the streets get alive! Though it’s obviously a challenge with a child in tow, you can get the best of both worlds by selecting a restaurant to dine in, right in the streeet, and get the vibe, music, and feed your family a hearty meal – all at once! End your day soaking up the culture, one last time – through a drive across town.
Budget Breakdown (for a family of 3)
Final Thoughts: Why Budapest is Amazing for Families
✅ Lots of free attractions – Castles, bridges, and historical sites won’t cost a dime!
✅ Delicious and affordable food – Goulash, Chimney Cake, and Lángos? Yes, please!
✅ Easy transport – Buses, trams, and even funiculars make getting around fun.
✅ A mix of adventure and relaxation – Museums for the history buffs, playgrounds for the little ones, and scenic cruises for everyone.
Budapest, you beauty—you’ve officially won our hearts! ❤️
Until next time, viszlát! (That’s Hungarian for ‘See you later!’)
