Where the Girls Go: The Perfect Day in Budapest

By Jordan Ross

Budapest is a must-visit city during your European adventures. Stunning architecture, vibrant nightlife, endless shopping, and beautiful views await. Here’s a guide to a mix of tourist + local spots you can’t miss.

Grab a Coffee + Brunch

Delicious coffee options are endless in Budapest. Skip the Starbucks this time, and try Madal or Cafe Arkitekter for beautiful interiors and amazing coffee.

Hungry? Stop by the viral Random Bagel for a stunning bagel sandwich, or Twentysix for a sit-down brunch that feels like you’re at a beautiful island resort without leaving the inner city. 

Be a Tourist

You’re here to explore, and there’s nothing wrong with being a tourist! Be sure St. Stephen’s Basilica, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and Fisherman’s Bastion are on your list for a day full of history and stunning views. For a cool Instagram photo, stop by “The Moon”, a stunning art installation free to view. 

Furthermore, be sure to save time to stroll along the Danube. And for a better view, I recommend a sunset cruise. The sweet spot is to pick a time as sunset begins, so as your boat returns, you can see Parliament and other historical buildings completely lit up for the night. Bonus points if it's a prosecco cruise. 

If local cuisine is your thing, you may notice the countless stands advertising Chimney Cakes. SKIP the tourist stands advertising chimney cakes full of ice cream, and look for bakeries selling just the chimney cake, plainly. It is a sweet, delicious cinnamon-flavored treat, but not intended to be covered in all those toppings. Hungarian pancakes are also a delicious treat to try. 

And is it Europe if you didn't go to Zara? Stop by Fashion Street to get your shopping fix in, where you'll find a massive Zara, Bershka, H&M, Pull&Bear, and so much more.

Wander + Grab a Drink

I had one of the best Hugo spritzes I’ve ever tasted at a local spot I came across just wandering before dinner, a few blocks from my hotel. Look for a spot full of locals, where people are gathering with friends for a pre-dinner vibe. If you’re looking for other tourists, Budapest is famous for its “ruin bars” , the oldest and possibly most iconic being Szimpla Kert. 

If a more lowkey spot is your thing, check out Kelet Kávézó és Galéria, a charming coffee shop that turns into a bar. It has indoor and outdoor seating and a calming, chill vibe.

Sunset at the Citadella 

For the best view, you'll want to walk to the top of the newly renovated Citadella, which is free, but quite the hike. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes, and know that the views are indeed worth the incline. Take your time- and maybe a bottle of wine as a reward.

Party on the Danube 

Budapest has no shortage of nightclubs, but for a more unique experience, take a walk down the sides of the Danube closed off specifically for pedestrians. Especially in the summer, you’ll find live music, people picnicking, and essentially a huge party until all hours of the night. Take it all in and enjoy what the locals have to offer. 

My dream day. Cute.