Days Along the Danube

A Long Weekend in Budapest

On either side of the Danube, the formerly separate towns of Buda and Pest showcase their palaces, parks, squares and centuries-old churches. During this long weekend in Budapest, soak up the traditions, food and architecture that highlight its complex past and multicultural present.

To kick things off, we’ll organise tickets for you to visit the impressive Hungarian Parliament, whose splendid façade and neo-Gothic spires reflect in the waters of the Danube. Inside, marvel at the never-ending hallways and majestic ceremonial rooms. On the other side of the river, the capital inundates you with culture and history in its numerous museums (such as the Hungarian National Museum), Saint Stephen’s Basilica, the Jewish Quarter and the magnificent Dohany Street Synagogue, the largest in Europe. You might also want to spend an enchanting evening at the Opera or stroll through the Varosliget City Park, which boasts 300 acres of greenery and ponds, along with museums and the Vajdahunyad Castle. If you’re visiting in winter, don’t miss skating on the frozen pond.

To the west of the Danube, enjoy a change of scenery along the scenic country paths that cross the Buda Hills. And don’t forget to stop at Budavar Palace at the end of the spectacular Chain Bridge. This Historic residence of the kings of Hungary is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site and houses the Hungarian National Gallery. Above all, Budapest is a city bubbling with life and vitality, evident in the popular Central Market Hall. Here, you’ll find a thousand and one stalls where you can discover the cornerstones of traditional Hungarian cuisine, such as paprika, turo (fresh cheese), dill and foie gras. We recommend trying the langos – savoury doughnuts covered in cheese and sour cream – or halaszle, a traditional fish soup.

On Your Itinerary

To truly experience Budapest, you have to lose yourself in it, whether that means wandering the streets of Pest in the shadow of Buda Hill or ambling between quirky cafes and past ancient façades. To help you make the most of your time here, we’ll arrange for a friendly private guide to show you the city, sharing its secrets along the way. You’ll have tickets to visit the Hungarian Parliament and head up Andrassy Avenue to the vast Heroes' Square, which houses the spectacular Millennium Monument: a must-visit on any trip to the city. And for some all-important R&R, while you’re here, we’ll get tickets to the famous Szechenyi Thermal Bath, one of the largest of its kind. All you need to do is decide when to immerse yourself in its steaming or icy waters, soaking up the surrounding neo-Baroque architecture.

Where You’ll Stay

During your long weekend in Budapest, you’ll stay in the heart of the Jozsefvaros district – the eighth district – on the Pest side. Here, you’re perfectly placed a stone’s throw from the Hungarian National Museum, across from the Jesuit Church of the Sacred Heart. Your accommodation was once the mansion of a Hungarian count, and this beautiful 19th-century building has retained its imposing neo-Baroque facade. Inside, you’ll find chic 70s decor with contemporary sophistication and a nod to the building’s origins.
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