Touchdown in Budapest, and immediately the city had us wrapped around its finger before we even checked in. We stayed at the InterContinental Hotel, and let me tell you, waking up to that panoramic Danube view? Just beautiful. The Chain Bridge twinkled at night, Buda Castle lit up like a fairytale, and we legit felt like we were starring in our own European rom-com.

We started our exploration on foot, with no trams or taxis, just our sneakers and around 20,000 steps a day (completely worth it).

The Parliament building is an architectural masterpiece, exuding drama in every Gothic Revival detail. After that, we made our way to the Shoes on the Danube Bank, a powerful memorial that left us speechless. The row of iron shoes along the riverbank honors the lives lost during WWII, a reminder of the past that hits you right in the heart. Standing there, with the Danube flowing quietly beside us, it’s impossible not to reflect on the weight of history.

Fishermen’s Bastion (aka Budapest’s fantasy castle lookout). We climbed up, snapped a million pics, and soaked in the view. Buda on one side, Pest on the other, and we are right in the middle of it all. Then we strolled over to Buda Castle, wandered through its grand courtyards, and took in the city from above. Walking down the grand staircase brought us back to the hustle and bustle of the city.

Next, we hopped on the metro (because yes, our feet needed a break) and made our way to Heroes’ Square to pay our respects to Hungary’s OG icons. Right next door? The Museum of Fine Arts. We went in for the paintings and stayed for the ceilings, seriously, we could’ve stared at them all day. The ceilings at the Museum of Fine Arts are stunning because they are intricately detailed, featuring vibrant frescoes and grand architectural designs that feel like stepping into an artwork themselves.

Now for the Great Market Hall. This place is pure hustle and paprika. We wandered through stacks of dried sausages, mountains of pastries, and shelves of Hungarian goodies we couldn’t pronounce but absolutely needed.

We crossed the Liberty Bridge, the green one that gives “casual elegance.” At 184 years old, it carries that old-world vibe and offers a photogenic way to cross to the other side of the city.

Pro Tips & Quirky Finds:

• Zoo Café: Yes, you sip your latte next to a bunny. And maybe a chameleon. It’s chaotic cuteness, and we were obsessed.

• Ferris Wheel at Night: Glittery city views + moody skyline = total main character moment.

• Danube After Dark: Take a stroll along the river after sundown when the city lights start to shimmer. Don’t forget to snap a pic with the iconic yellow streetcar as it comes by.

• Beer Bath: Yup. Soaked in beer, drank some beer, maybe became beer? Unclear. But would 10/10 do it again for the glow alone:)

• Kiosk Budapest. This restaurant nails the vibe with its high ceilings, industrial-chic decor, and a buzz that hits the moment you walk in. The outdoor terrace is the spot to be in the summertime. Laid-back, stylish, and serving up an incredtibel Goulash with dreamy Danube views.

• Liz & Chain Sky Lounge: Rooftop dreams come true on the 9th floor of the Marriott Hotel. Go at night for castle views, twinkling Fishermen’s Bastion, and cocktails that make you feel fancy.

• Gozsdu Courtyard: Tucked just off Király Street, it’s like a tiny nightlife universe. You find fairy lights, bar-hopping, hookah, street food, and late-night energy for days.

And the cafés! Oh man, Budapest is crawling with cute spots. Our fave for breakfast? Gisell. I had an oat milk cappuccino and some sort of magical egg toast situation that I still dream about.


There’s just something about Budapest that sticks with you. And something tells me this won’t be the last time wandering its lantern-lit streets, cappuccino in hand and enjoying Hungarian hospitality.

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