Kick off your day at the iconic New York Café, often referred to as the "most beautiful café in the world." Located in a grand 19th-century building, this café offers a stunning interior with opulent chandeliers, gold-leaf details, and frescoed ceilings. Enjoy a traditional Hungarian breakfast, or try a pastry with a strong espresso. The experience of dining here is as much about the ambiance as it is about the food. 

After breakfast, head to St. Stephen’s Basilica, one of Budapest’s most important religious buildings. This neoclassical church is named after the first King of Hungary, Saint Stephen, whose mummified right hand is kept as a relic inside. Climb to the top of the dome for a panoramic view of the city – it's one of the best vantage points in Budapest and perfect for photos. 

Next, make your way to the Hungarian Parliament Building, one of the most stunning examples of Gothic Revival architecture in Europe. Situated on the banks of the Danube, the Parliament is the largest building in Hungary. While the exterior is impressive enough, taking a guided tour inside will allow you to see the lavishly decorated interior, including the Hungarian Crown Jewels. 

After exploring the Parliament, take a leisurely stroll along the Danube Promenade. This scenic walkway runs between the Chain Bridge and Elizabeth Bridge and offers beautiful views of the Buda side of the city. Along the way, you'll encounter the poignant Shoes on the Danube Bank memorial, which commemorates the Jews who were killed by fascist militiamen during World War II. 

For lunch, head to Hungarikum Bistro, a charming restaurant known for its authentic Hungarian dishes. Try the goulash soup, chicken paprikash, or the stuffed cabbage. The portions are generous, and the flavors are rich and comforting, offering a perfect introduction to Hungarian cuisine. 

After lunch, cross the Chain Bridge to the Buda side of the city. The Chain Bridge, Budapest's first permanent bridge across the Danube, offers stunning views of both the Buda and Pest sides of the city. Once you’re across, take the Castle Hill Funicular or enjoy a scenic walk up to Buda Castle. The castle complex includes several museums, such as the Hungarian National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum. Spend some time exploring the courtyards and enjoying the panoramic views of Pest. 

From Buda Castle, take a short walk to the Castle District, a charming area filled with narrow cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and quaint shops. Make sure to visit Matthias Church, a beautiful church with a colorful tiled roof and stunning interior. Right next to the church is Fisherman’s Bastion, a neo-Gothic terrace with seven towers that represent the seven Hungarian tribes. The views of the Danube and the Pest side of the city from here are breathtaking. 

Continue your exploration with a visit to Gellért Hill. You can either walk or take a short bus ride up the hill. Once there, enjoy the sweeping views of Budapest and the Danube from the Citadella, a fortress that was built in the mid-19th century. The Liberty Statue at the top of the hill is also worth a visit and makes for a great photo opportunity. 

After a busy day of sightseeing, it's time to relax and rejuvenate at Széchenyi Thermal Bath, one of the largest and most famous thermal baths in Europe. Located in City Park, this bath complex features a mix of outdoor and indoor pools, saunas, and steam rooms, all filled with mineral-rich thermal waters. It’s a quintessential Budapest experience, so make sure to bring a swimsuit, towel, and flip-flops. You can rent towels and lockers on-site if needed. 

End your day in the lively Jewish Quarter, known for its vibrant nightlife and excellent food scene. Visit Dohány Street Synagogue. For dinner, head to Mazeltov, a popular restaurant set in a beautifully restored courtyard. They offer a variety of Mediterranean dishes with a Hungarian twist, such as shawarma, falafel, and fresh salads.

After dinner, explore the famous ruin bars that the area is known for. Szimpla Kert, the original ruin bar, is a must-visit. It’s filled with eclectic furniture, quirky decor, and a lively atmosphere. Enjoy a drink and soak in the unique vibe of this iconic Budapest spot.