Embark on a captivating 5-day journey to Budapest, a city rich in history and vibrant culture. This mid-range, mixed-type trip is perfect for delving into world-class museums and immersing yourself in local traditions. Discover the architectural wonders and artistic treasures that make Budapest an unforgettable cultural destination.

Arrive at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) from Milan.
Proceed to immigration and baggage claim.
After arrival, you can take a taxi, the 100E Airport Express bus, or arrange a private transfer to your hotel. The 100E bus goes directly to Deák Ferenc tér in the city center.
Check into your accommodation, Eurostars Palazzo Zichy, and settle in.
Take some time to freshen up before heading out.
From the airport, the hotel is centrally located, easily accessible by public transport or taxi.
Cross the Danube to the Buda side and explore the historic Buda Castle complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site offering stunning views of the city.
Walk through the courtyards and admire the architecture.
Accessible by funicular from Chain Bridge or by bus from Széll Kálmán tér.
Visit the Hungarian National Gallery, located within Buda Castle, showcasing Hungarian art from the Middle Ages to the present day.
Focus on key periods and artists.
Check closing times, as some museums close earlier on weekdays.
Enjoy traditional Hungarian cuisine at a restaurant in the charming Castle District.
Experience a unique Segway tour focusing on the Parliament area.
Glide through the city and see the majestic Hungarian Parliament Building and surrounding landmarks. This is a fun and efficient way to cover ground.
The Segway tour offers a great overview. Remember to check local regulations for Segway use.
Visit the poignant Shoes on the Danube Bank memorial, honoring the Jewish victims who were shot into the Danube during WWII.
A powerful and moving historical site.
Located close to the Parliament building, an important site for reflection.
Explore St.
Stephen's Basilica, one of Budapest's most beautiful churches. Admire its stunning interior and climb to the dome for panoramic city views (optional).
Entry to the Basilica is usually free, but a small donation is requested. There is a fee to go up to the dome.
Embark on a private 2-hour Electric Tuk Tuk tour to discover Budapest's main attractions and charming, less-known insider spots.
A personalized way to see the city's highlights.
Enjoy a combined walking tour of Budapest's iconic riverside landmarks followed by a relaxing Danube River cruise to see the city sparkle from the water.
Includes views of the Chain Bridge and Parliament.
Dine at one of the many excellent restaurants in the bustling Pest city center, offering a range of culinary choices.
Take a guided tour of the magnificent Hungarian State Opera House, an architectural masterpiece.
Learn about its history and impressive interiors. (Check tour availability and times).
Booking tours in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season. There are usually daily tours in English.
Explore the extensive collections of European art at the Museum of Fine Arts, featuring works by Old Masters, Egyptian and Greco-Roman antiquities, and more.
Located on Heroes' Square, easily accessible by metro (M1 line). Check for special exhibitions.
Participate in a hands-on class to learn the art of making traditional Hungarian strudel.
Stretch and fill two different kinds of strudel, a delightful culinary experience.
Indulge in an intimate and casual wine tasting session, exploring Hungary's diverse and exciting wine regions. Sample indigenous varieties and learn about local winemaking traditions.
Savor an authentic Hungarian dinner, perhaps trying dishes like goulash, paprikash, or a hearty stew, accompanied by local wines.
Arrive at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD), transfer to your accommodation, and check-in.
Note: The best available flight from Milan arrives earlier than your stated 12:00 preference, allowing for a relaxed start.
Take a taxi, miniBUD shuttle, or public transport (bus 100E) to the city center.
Enjoy a traditional Hungarian lunch in the charming Buda Castle District.
Try a local goulash or fisherman's soup (Halászlé).
Discover the historic Buda Castle complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering stunning views of the Danube and Pest.
Walk around the courtyards and enjoy the panoramic views. Consider visiting the Hungarian National Gallery located within the castle grounds if time permits later.
Visit the neo-Gothic Fisherman's Bastion for incredible city views and admire the colorful roof of Matthias Church.
Climb to the upper terraces for the best photo opportunities. Entrance to Matthias Church requires a ticket.
Savor Hungarian cuisine at a restaurant in the Buda area.
Take a guided tour of the iconic Hungarian Parliament Building, one of the most magnificent parliamentary buildings in the world.
Book tickets online in advance, as tours often sell out. Bring your passport for entry.
Visit the poignant memorial commemorating the Jewish victims shot into the Danube during WWII.
Located just a short walk from the Parliament Building.
Combine a walking tour of iconic landmarks with a scenic Danube river cruise, offering unique perspectives of Budapest's bridges and buildings.
Enjoy a casual lunch in the bustling downtown area of Pest.
Admire the stunning architecture of the Hungarian State Opera House from the outside.
Consider a guided tour if time and interest allow.
Tours are often available in the afternoon.
Experience Budapest's unique ruin bar culture.
Start with a drink at Szimpla Kert or participate in a pub crawl.
The Jewish Quarter is home to many famous ruin bars. Pub Crawl Budapest (TripAdvisor) could be an option for a guided experience.
Relax and rejuvenate at one of Europe's largest medicinal baths.
Enjoy the outdoor and indoor thermal pools.
Arrive early to avoid crowds. Bring your own towel and flip-flops, or rent them there.
Walk through Heroes' Square, a major landmark, and explore the surrounding City Park (Városliget), home to Vajdahunyad Castle.
The square is a grand monument dedicated to the leaders of the seven tribes that founded Hungary.
Participate in an authentic strudel making class, learning to stretch and fill this traditional dessert in two ways.
Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants along the elegant Andrássy Avenue.
This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a variety of dining options from casual to upscale.
Delve into Hungarian art history at the Hungarian National Gallery, located within Buda Castle.
Explore extensive collections of Hungarian painting and sculpture.
The gallery is housed in the historic Buda Castle, offering a rich cultural experience combined with architectural beauty.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch in the charming surroundings of the Buda Castle District after your museum visit.
Discover the best of Budapest effortlessly on a guided Segway tour, covering highlights of both Buda and Pest sides.
Explore Hungary's exciting wine scene with an intimate, casual tasting session, sampling wines from the country's famous regions.
Conclude your day with dinner at a recommended restaurant in the lively Pest district.
Visit St.
Stephen's Basilica, one of the most beautiful churches in Budapest. Climb to the panoramic terrace for impressive city views.
Modest entrance fee required to enter the church and ascend to the dome. Dress respectfully (shoulders and knees covered).
Wander through the historic Jewish Quarter, home to Europe's largest synagogue (Dohány Street Synagogue), and learn about its rich history and vibrant culture.
Consider visiting the Dohány Street Synagogue (ticket required) or simply exploring the unique streets, murals, and small shops.
Enjoy a final Hungarian lunch at a restaurant or café in the Jewish Quarter.
Take some time for last-minute souvenir shopping or enjoy a final coffee at a cozy café before heading to the airport.
Váci Street and the surrounding areas offer many shops.
Depart from your hotel and transfer to Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) for your evening flight.
Allow ample time for traffic. Options include taxi, miniBUD shuttle, or public transport (bus 100E).
Complete check-in and security procedures at the airport, then board your flight back to Milan.
Your flight departs at 21:55, giving you plenty of time at the airport after your suggested 17:40 departure time.
This 8-day itinerary for Budapest can be customized using our AI travel planner. Chat with our AI assistant to modify activities, adjust timings, add personal preferences, and get recommendations for restaurants, hotels, and transportation.