Discover Budapest in 1 day!

Budapest is divided by the Danube River, with Buda on one side, Pest on the other. When you have one day’s time to spend in the Hungarian capital, it is best to begin in Buda, on Castle Hill. Part of the Old Town, here stands the neo-Gothic Matthias Church on Szentháromság tér (Trinity Square). Although founded over 700 years ago, much of the present structure is from the late 19th century. Behind the church is the amusing Fishermen’s Bastion. Built at the turn of this century, its seven turrets commemorate the seven Magyar tribes that founded Hungary in 896 AD A spectacular panorama of Budapest can be seen from here (especially in the evening!).

Fishermen’s Bastion - Váci street - Matthias Church

Reflecting the bastion in mirrored windows is the nearby Budapest Hilton Hotel, a modern structure with the contrasting remains of a 13th century abbey and a 17th century Jesuit college integrated with it.

A walk through the area’s charming streets, such as Táncsics Mihály utca and Tárnok utca will show you Lovely restored Baroque houses. For a glimpse of medieval Buda, peek in entryways on the Úri utca.

The Ruszwurm Café at Szentháromság utca 7, a favourite of Habsburg Queen Elisabeth’s in the last century, is an ideal place to stop before visiting the Royal Palace. Seven centuries of history make up the palace foundations; four museums are within, including the Budapest History Museum and the National Gallery, both with works dating back to the Middle Ages.

For a different point of view, head to Pest. Whether by foot, by bus or by taxi, venture across the landmark of the Danube, theChain Bridge(Széchenyi Lánchíd) before strolling on the pedestrian shopping street Váci utca. Here, everything from designer clothes and exclusive jewelry to folk art ceramics and embroideries will entice your eyes and wallet.