Budapest in 2 days: classic sights, special walks, spas and public transport tips for a comfortable weekend.

Budapest in 2 days - guide to the city's best sights by public transport

Day 1 - Classic Budapest: Basilica, Castle District and Andrassy Avenue

Start your sightseeing in the morning at one of Budapest's iconic landmarks, St Stephen's Basilica. If you're staying in the city centre, you can reach it on foot, but it's also easy to get here by metro line 3 (M3): get off at Bajcsy-Zsilinszky út and you'll be there in a few minutes. The Basilica tower offers a fantastic view of the city - especially beautiful in the spring sunshine.

From here, you can walk comfortably to the Chain Bridge (about 15 minutes), enjoying the elegant atmosphere of downtown Pest on the way. Cross the bridge and you're back in Buda. At Clark Ádám Square, you can either take the Buda Slide (fun, but pay) or walk up the steps to Várhegy. Neither is a bad choice - the view makes up for any effort.

The Fisherman's Bastion and Matthias Church are must-stops on the Buda side, but if you can, walk down to the Castle Garden Bazaar - a less crowded part of the Castle District, full of romantic staircases, secluded terraces and unique views. From here, you can take tram 19 or 41 back to Pest: these lines run along the banks of the Danube, so you can enjoy the journey on the go.

To explore the city, you need to get to Deák Ferenc Square - the transport hub where three metro lines meet, from where you can continue to Andrássy út. If you like architecture, this is a walk not to be missed: along the Avenue you will pass historic palaces, embassies and art institutions.

At the Opera stop, get off the mini subway (M1) to admire the Hungarian State Opera House, which is impressive not only inside but also out. Across from the Opera House, a special accommodation awaits the stylish traveller: the Callas House, where unique design meets historic surroundings and modern comfort.
In the evening, relax downtown. Dinner in the Gozsdu Courtyard or an evening stroll around the Dohany Street Synagogue is the perfect way to end the day. Most places are within walking distance, but trams 47 and 49 also run frequently.

Day 2 - City Park, museums and thermal water

The next day, head for the green! One end of the Little Underground (M1) is Heroes' Square, which is impressive in itself: a group of sculptures depicting some of the most important figures in Hungary's history. On either side of the square you'll find the Museum of Fine Arts and the Kunsthalle - pick one if you want to see a short, inspiring exhibition.

From here it's a straight walk to Városliget, Budapest's largest park. The Vajdahunyad Castle stands fabulously beside an artificial lake, with spring foliage and birdsong around it creating an almost nature-movie atmosphere. The grove is the perfect place to relax, have a coffee or a picnic on the grass - a favourite spot for locals and tourists alike.

But if you're looking for a truly unique experience, the Széchenyi Baths are not to be missed. It's one of the largest and best-known spas in Europe, with its famous outdoor pools that are open all year round. You can reach the spa on foot from Heroes' Square, but the only stop is Széchenyi Baths, which is one of the most famous spas in Europe.

After a swim, if you're still in the mood for a stroll, head back to Andrássy út and explore the area around the Liszt Academy - a little music, a strong espresso and you'll be re-energised for the end of your weekend in Budapest.

Extra tip - how to get around Budapest with ease

The city's public transport is well-established and reliable. It's worth buying a 24 or 72-hour ticket, which you can use on all BKK vehicles. The BudapestGO app or Google Maps can help you find your way around, showing real-time connections and routes. The trams, especially the 2, 4, 6 and 47, reach almost all major points. The M1 is not only practical, it's also a real trip back in time: the oldest underground in Europe, with beautiful stations.

A weekend in Budapest is enough to bring you home with lasting memories - but it's also just short enough to make you long to return. Whether it's historical sightseeing, city walks, a swim or a good coffee in the heart of the city centre, you can do it all. Public transport is quick and easy, and the range of activities is endless.