After an unforgettable day in Vienna, it was time to continue my overland journey from Berlin to Singapore. The next destination: Budapest, the vibrant capital of Hungary. The train from Vienna to Budapest takes about 2 hours and 40 minutes and offers a scenic ride through the Hungarian countryside.
For my stay, I checked into Dean’s Home Budapest, a modern and affordable hotel with spacious rooms and a youthful atmosphere. And very practical and important to me: it has a laundry room. After the first week of my trip it was time to wash clothes.
3 Quick Facts About Visiting Budapest
- Buda is on the western side and Pest on the eastern side of the Danube river, which divides the city.
- Budapest’s Metro Line M1 is the oldest underground railway in continental Europe, and a UNESCO World Heritage site
- Don’t underestimate costs: Almost all tourist sights require an entry fee, including churches and it can add up quickly. St. Stephen’s Basilica, Matthias Church, the Fisherman’s Bastion, museums – just to name a few. pted, shop exchange rates are usually poor.
My 2-Day Itinerary in Budapest
St. Stephen’s Basilica
I started my first day in Budapest at the St. Stephen’s Basilica. Named after Hungary’s first king, it is one of Budapest’s most impressive landmarks. The neoclassical façade and the enormous dome can be seen from afar, but it’s the details inside that truly amaze — glittering mosaics, marble columns, and a stunning panorama from the dome’s viewing platform. If you have time, climb the 364 steps (or take the elevator) for one of the best views over Budapest’s rooftops and the Danube River.
Pro tip: There was a long queue at the ticket office. In front of the entrance are big signs displaying a QR-code. Scan it and buy the ticket online.
- Entry basilica: 2,400 HUF | 6 EUR
- Entry panoramic terrace: : 4,500 HUF | 11.50 EUR
- Entry both combined: 6,200 HUF | 16 EUR
Hungarian Parliament
From the basilica, a short walk takes you to the magnificent Hungarian Parliament Building, a true architectural masterpiece. With its Gothic Revival design, towering spires, and riverside location, it’s one of the most photographed buildings in Europe. Guided tours are available and provide fascinating insights into Hungary’s political history — including a glimpse of the Holy Crown of Hungary, which has been used to crown kings for over 1,000 years. If you prefer not to go inside, admire the view from across the Danube at sunset, when the entire façade glows golden in the evening light.
- Entry for EEA citizens: 6,500 HUF | 16.50 EUR
- Entry for non-EEA citizens: 13,000 HUF | 33 EUR
Shoes on the Danube Bank
From the Parliament building, walk along the Danube River. After a few minutes you’ll find one of Budapest’s most moving memorials — the Shoes on the Danube Bank. This quiet riverside installation honors the Jewish victims who were executed along the river during World War II. The sixty pairs of iron shoes, cast in 1944 style, serve as a haunting reminder of the city’s darker past.
From here, continue your walk along the Danube to the Széchenyi Chain Bridge, the most iconic bridge crossing the Danube. Opened in 1849, it was the first permanent connection between Buda and Pest. Strolling across the bridge is not just practical — it’s a great way to enjoy the city skyline and make your way toward the Buda side, where more sights await.
- Entry: free
☕️ Coffee and Bagel at Zërgë
After several hours of exploring beautiful Budapest, I really needed a coffee. I visited Zërgë Coffeeshop and enjoyed a phenomenal Flat White and a bagel.
Regardless if in the morning or in the afternoon – after crossing the Széchenyi Bridge and before you go up to the castle this is the place to get your caffeine infusion (my personal opinion, neither am I affiliated with them nor am I getting anything in return).
Buda Castle and the Castle Garden Bazaar
Once you’ve crossed the bridge, you’ll see the historic Buda Castle rising on the hill. Many visitors take the funicular, but there’s often a long queue. During the day, I recommend turning left and walking through the Castle Garden Bazaar (Várkert Bazár). This beautifully restored 19th-century complex features romantic staircases, fountains, and terraces that lead you gently uphill to the castle. Along the way, you’ll get stunning views of the Danube and the Pest skyline — and it’s a peaceful alternative to the crowded funicular (read my pro tip how to take a ride without queueing below) .
At the top, explore the castle courtyard and enjoy the sweeping view over the river — especially magical at sunset.
Day 2 – Exploring More of Pest and its Castle District
Budapest’s Historic Metro Line (M1)
Start your second day (early!) with a ride on Metro Line M1, Europe’s oldest underground line still in operation. Built in 1896, this charming yellow line connects the city center with Heroes’ Square and City Park. The old wooden carriages and tiled stations give it a nostalgic feel, and riding it is like stepping back in time. It’s both a practical and historical experience.
You may want to take the M1 metro until the last stop Vörösmarty tér – from there it is a 15 minutes walk via the Széchenyi Chain Bridge to the Buda Castle Funicular.
Buda Castle Funicular Ride
If you skipped the funicular on Day 1, now’s your chance. I was there at 8:45 in the morning and there was NOBODY. The Buda Castle Funicular (Budavári Sikló) has been running since 1870 and takes you straight up to the castle.
In my personal opinion I would spend the 12 EUR on something else. It’s a short ride and from the top you have much better views anyway. If you are not a huge funicular admirer then I’d rather walk up and explore more beautiful places on the way as described earlier.
- Entry: 5,000 HUF | 12 EUR
Sandor Palace and the Guard Change
Right next to the upper station of the funicular lies Sándor Palace, the official residence of Hungary’s president. Every hour, you can watch the guard change ceremony, but if you visit at 12:00 pm, you’ll get the full experience — complete with drummers and a more elaborate performance. It’s a fun and free attraction that adds a bit of royal flair to your morning.
- Entry: free
Matthias Church – The Church of Our Lady of Buda Castle
You can take a stroll through the castle district and slowly make your way uphill to the stunning Matthias Church, one of Budapest’s most beautiful landmarks. The colorful tiled roof, Gothic spires, and ornate interior make it a photographer’s dream. Inside, the walls are painted with intricate patterns that reflect centuries of history — from royal coronations to wartime damage and restoration.
- Entry: 3,100 HUF | 8 EUR
Fisherman’s Bastion
Right next to the church, you’ll find the fairytale-like Fisherman’s Bastion, with its white towers and panoramic terraces overlooking the Danube. Despite its medieval appearance, it was actually built in the late 19th century as a viewing terrace. From here, you get the best views of the Parliament across the river — especially at sunrise or sunset when the city glows in warm tones. Grab a coffee from one of the nearby cafés and take your time soaking in the view before ending your Budapest adventure.
The lower part, some balconies and stairs are freely accessible. But to go on top requires an entry fee.
- Entry (to go on top): 1,500 HUF | 3.80 EUR
Reflections on Budapest
Budapest combines history, beauty, and atmosphere like few other cities in Europe. Whether you’re riding the century-old metro, wandering through castle gardens, or simply watching the sunset from Fisherman’s Bastion, the city has a way of leaving a lasting impression — the perfect continuation of the EastWest Trails journey from Berlin to Singapore. Next, I am heading to Romania.
Berlin to Singapore Overland
📍 From Vienna to Budapest
🚅 Transportation: Train
💻 Booked via: RegioJet
🛣️ Distance travelled since Berlin: 749 km