2 Days in Budapest: Winter Charm, Warm Baths & Sparkling Nights
Before I visited Budapest, it honestly wasn’t even on my radar — and I don’t know why! This city totally swept me off my feet.
Between the historic architecture, cozy cafés, and the way everything glows at night, it’s one of those places that feels straight out of a fairytale.
If you visit in winter, bring your warmest coat, some extra layers, and a sense of adventure — because this city really shines when the temperatures drop.
✨ Before You Go: What to Know About This Itinerary
Vegan Options: I will list Vegan Options near the locations you will be at for the day!
Holiday closures: If you’re visiting around Christmas or New Year’s, plan ahead! We arrived on New Year’s Day and… let’s just say our stomachs learned the hard way that most restaurants were closed (I know - how did we not think about this?).
Getting around: You know I’m going to say it — do the Hop-On Hop-Off Tour! It’s perfect if you’re short on time or not confident navigating local transit. Plus, it includes a river cruise, which is a must!
Bundle up: Winter here can be icy, so think layers, hats, and gloves. You’ll thank me when you’re crossing the Chain Bridge in the wind. 🌬🥶
Christmas Markets: If you’re here in December, the markets are magical. We caught the very last day on New Year’s Eve, and it was like walking through a holiday movie.
Overview of Itinerary:
Fisherman's Bastion
Buda Castle (Royal Palace)
Citadella
Chain Bridge
Danube River Tour
Heroes' Square
Széchenyi Thermal Bath
Central Market Hall
St. Stephen’s Basilica
Hungarian Parliament Building
Walk Along the Danube
Margaret Island
DAY ONE: Buda Side
The Buda side is the quieter, more historic half of the city, dominated by hills and the breathtaking Castle District.
Fisherman's Bastion
🕐 Estimated Time: 1 hour
This might just be one of the most Instagram-worthy spots in all of Europe. The fairytale towers and sweeping views over the Danube and Parliament are unreal — especially when dusted with snow. Come early morning for fewer crowds and soft winter light.
Buda Castle (Royal Palace)
🕐 Estimated Time: 2 - 3 hours
Home to the Hungarian National Gallery and Budapest History Museum, the castle complex is a gorgeous area to explore. Even if you skip the museums, just wandering the cobblestone paths and taking in the views is worth it.
Citadella (Gellért Hill)
🕐 Estimated Time: 30 minutes
Sitting atop Gellért Hill, this fortress gives you panoramic views of the entire city. It’s a bit of a trek (bundle up — the wind is no joke), but the payoff is unbeatable. It’s also one of the best spots to watch the sunset if you time it right.
Chain Bridge
🕐 Estimated Time: 30 minutes
The Chain Bridge was the first permanent bridge to connect Buda and Pest back in 1849 and is an engineering marvel. It's instantly recognizable by the majestic stone lions guarding either end. Take the time to walk across it and enjoy the unique perspective of the Danube flowing between the two sides of the city.
Danube River Tour
🕐 Estimated Time: 1 hour
Okay, if you only take one recommendation from me, please let it be this: do the river tour at night! Watching Parliament, Buda Castle, and the bridges lit up against the dark sky is absolutely breathtaking. It’s Budapest at its best!
🌱 Vegan Options on Buda Side:
Vegan’s Prague
Neruda Cafe
Natureza
Skautský Institut v Rybárně
Dosa Dum
Café Club Míšeňská
Waffle Point U Kajetana
Vegan version of trdelník (Czech cake)
DAY TWO: Pest Side
The Pest side is flat, bustling, and home to most of the grand boulevards, government buildings, and markets. This is the heart of the modern city.
Heroes’ Square
🕐 Estimated Time: 30 - 45 minutes
One of the city’s grandest landmarks, with statues honoring Hungary’s most important historical figures. It’s especially dramatic in winter when the square feels quiet and the air is crisp.
Széchenyi Thermal Bath
🕐 Estimated Time: 1 -2 hours
Yes, it’s cold outside, but slipping into these steaming outdoor pools surrounded by snow is peak Budapest winter magic. The contrast of freezing air and warm water is oddly addictive — just be prepared to share the space with a crowd!
Central Market Hall
🕐 Estimated Time: 1 - 2 hours
Warm up indoors and wander through this massive market full of local snacks, spices, and handmade goods. It’s the perfect place to grab a bite or some paprika to take home. The top floor has food stalls — try a vegan goulash if you can find one!
St. Stephen’s Basilica
🕐 Estimated Time: 45 minutes
This gorgeous basilica is a must-see, especially during the holidays when there’s a Christmas market and light show in front. You can also climb (or take the elevator) to the top for another stunning winter view of the city.
Hungarian Parliament Building
🕐 Estimated Time: 1 hour
This is the Budapest postcard view. Whether you see it up close or from across the river, it’s stunning from every angle. At night, it’s completely lit up — and I promise you’ll take at least 50 photos.
Walk Along the Danube
🕐 Estimated Time: 1 hour
Take your time strolling along the riverbank between Parliament and the Chain Bridge. Stop to see the Shoes on the Danube Memorial, which honors the Jewish lives lost during WWII. It’s a powerful and emotional spot that’s hard to forget.
Margaret Island
🕐 Estimated Time: 1 hour
This peaceful island in the middle of the Danube is perfect for a quiet walk if you need a break from the city bustle. In winter, it’s calm and serene — and in December, you can check out Lumina Park, a light-filled wonderland that feels straight out of a storybook.
🌱 Vegan Options on East Side:
Napfényes Restaurant & Confectionery (Fully Vegan!)
Vegan Garden Budapest (Fully Vegan!)
Goli Restaurant
Best Bagel Basilica
Personally, I LOVED this place and still think about it
CAUSE
Café Gerbeaud
Anjuna Ice Pops - Sas utca
This is only open seasonally though!
Budapest in winter feels like a secret that not enough people talk about. Between the sparkling lights, cozy baths, and beautiful architecture, it’s one of those cities that surprises you in the best way possible.
If you’re planning a European winter trip, don’t skip it — it might just end up being one of your favorite stops (it definitely was for me!).
Until next adventure! 👋