Budapest on a Budget: 3 Days in Budapest

 

Budapest

While Budapest wasn't initially at the top of my travel bucket list, my time working abroad in Dubai provided ample opportunity for adventure, leading me to discover this hidden gem in the heart of Europe.

Dubai Dreams, Budapest Bound

Budapest isn’t exactly somewhere I’ve always wanted to go, but at this point in life, I was working as a teacher in Dubai. With abundant holidays at my disposal, I was determined to explore the world. While many of my friends were jetting off to luxurious resorts and honeymoon destinations, as a single man, I sought destinations where I could not only stretch my budget but also connect with fellow travelers.

Mastering the Art of Budget Travel

Having traveled extensively before, I had mastered the art of finding affordable vacations, flights, and accommodations. Dubai's status as a travel hub made it even easier to score great deals, especially with budget airlines like Wizz Air. Despite the initial hesitation, I decided to book a flight to Budapest, enticed by the promise of adventure and affordability. For just £240, I secured a round-trip flight, making it an irresistible offer for a 6-hour journey.

Navigating Budapest's Charms

For those hesitant about solo travel, my advice is simple: commit to booking your flights early and plan the rest of your trip around them. This approach allowed me to budget effectively, with each paycheck going towards a different aspect of the journey. Fortunately, on this occasion, a friend decided to join me in Budapest, allowing us to split the cost of accommodations.

Arriving in Budapest: A Chilly Welcome

Arriving in mid-April, we were greeted by slightly chilly weather, but it didn't dampen our spirits. In hindsight, a summer visit would have been ideal for soaking up the sun during a city break. Nonetheless, we made the most of our time, starting with the seamless organization of transportation at the airport.

Scoring a Deal: City Hotel Matyas

As we arrived, we found ourselves right on the Danube River, mere steps away from the majestic Parliament Building, a journey that took us only about 25 minutes. It was an ideal location, nestled amidst charming café shops and captivating sights. Our stroke of luck led us to discover City Hotel Matyas. While the hotel itself wasn't adorned with five-star luxury, its architectural charm was undeniable. Situated on the bridge that divides Buda from Pest, we were within arm's reach of the river's edge. What truly sealed the deal was the price—we stumbled upon Locktrip.com, a website recommended for hotel bookings, where we scored a remarkable 30% discount on our stay. It's become my go-to platform for all bookings, offering unparalleled savings. With our accommodations sorted, we eagerly anticipated embarking on our adventures the next day.

City Hotel Matyas

Day 1: Exploring Budapest's Delights

We woke up eager to explore, wasting no time as my friend, a seasoned solo traveler, led the way. With Vaci Street just a stone's throw away, we ventured out in search of breakfast. My friend, obsessed with trying Goulash, was determined to sample it, although I managed to convince him to wait until a more reasonable hour. Budapest proved to be a city perfect for aimless wandering, seamlessly blending old-world charm with modern allure. One of our first stops was The Great Market Hall, touted as "the most beautiful market in Europe."

Great Market Hall

Market Adventures and Culinary Quests

While its exterior boasted stunning architecture, the interior left much to be desired. It seemed more like a playground for pretentious trust fund babies, with overpriced everyday goods like cheese on display. To our amusement, even after scouring every stall, my friend persisted in his quest for Goulash, much to the confusion of two police officers we asked for directions.

Discovering Karavan Street

We continued our aimless stroll, although I use the term "aimless" loosely, as we were actually on a mission to explore, absorb the surroundings, and strategize our itinerary. This involved assessing the cost of things, devising ways to cut expenses, figuring out navigation routes, and, of course, my friend's top priority: finding authentic Goulash (none of that touristy stuff, only the real deal that locals savor).

As we passed by a cathedral with a €10 entrance fee, we quickly decided it wasn't worth it. Budapest was proving to be pricier than we had anticipated. Despite the common notion that Eastern Europe is budget-friendly, we soon realized it wasn't entirely true. In true British fashion, I judge a country's economy by the cost of a pint, which led us to our next stop: Karavan Street.

Karavan Street

The potential of Karavan Street quickly dawned on me, particularly on a scorching summer's day. Many Brits opt for weekend getaways to Budapest, whether it's with their significant others or for stag and hen parties, and it's easy to see why. This place offers a vibrant ambiance with good music and a lively atmosphere, perfect for those looking to have a bit of fun—provided you're okay with splurging a little.

You've probably seen this spot on social media—it's a bit of a tourist magnet. Picture a narrow alley illuminated by colorful lights and adorned with hipster-style graffiti, along with food trucks offering gourmet street food and craft beers. Despite our resistance to tourist traps, our tired legs and my rheumatoid arthritis, which demands a break after 90 minutes of walking, compelled us to indulge. A few pints set us back about 5 euros, but it provided the perfect opportunity to rest and plan the rest of our day.

Danube River

There were a few places right next to our hotel that we were eager to visit. First on our list was to capture a few shots from the bridge overlooking the Danube. Luckily, my friend was quite handy with a camera and had brought one along. Normally, I relied on my camera phone, but since he had his gear with him, I was determined to either kickstart my modeling career in Budapest or, at the very least, refresh my Tinder profile with some new and exciting photos, as it had grown a bit stale lately.

From there, we took a short stroll across the Danube Bridge and ventured into Pest to explore the sights of the Buda Castle. The walk from our hotel to the castle was a mere 10 minutes at most. During the day, you have the option to join a free walking tour around the castle, where a knowledgeable guide provides insights into its rich history. However, I highly recommend visiting at night as well, as the building is illuminated in a stunning neo-yellow glow, making it truly picturesque.

Buda Castle

Perched atop a hill, the castle dates back to the 1700s. Inside, you can wander through art galleries and museums, admire the vast courtyards, and explore the churches and chapels. Don't forget to grab a bite to eat at the restaurant, which offers a delightful dining experience amidst such historic surroundings.

Fisherman's Bastion

I hope you've packed your walking boots because once you're at Buda Castle, there's no stopping. You're already en route to the Fisherman’s Bastion, and let me tell you, this was the highlight for me. I may not be an art buff, but even I could appreciate the stunning architecture of this building. Perched atop the hill, the views of the Parliament Building from here are so breathtaking that you might not even feel the need to visit the Parliament Building anymore. Visiting the Fisherman’s Bastion is a must-do. Just imagine the view—it's pretty Instagram-worthy, isn't it?

As long as your legs aren't giving out on you, take some time to soak in the ambiance there. You can even treat yourself to a beer as a well-deserved reward for the climb, because that's exactly what we did.

It was time to head back for a quick rest and freshen up for the evening. We decided to make a pit stop to grab my friend some Goulash to prevent him from imploding with hunger, and then we were off for a beer or two. We had heard that the Jewish Quarter was the place to be, and we ended up stumbling upon a quirky bar called Doboz in the Ruin's area.

The best way I can describe this place is "garage meets garden." Picture a massive courtyard with a towering tree growing in the middle, surrounded by structures made from containers. Despite its unconventional setup, the atmosphere was fantastic, and if you enjoy a unique spot for cocktails, you won't be disappointed. We had a couple of drinks before calling it a night. Maybe we're getting on a bit and didn't have the energy of our younger days, or perhaps the day had simply worn us out, but we wanted to be fresh for day 2. So stay tuned for more adventures.

Doboz Ruins Bar Budapest

Day two

Our day was already mapped out, with no surprises planned, but we had our hearts set on experiencing a famous traditional pastime: visiting the thermal baths, specifically the Szechenyi Thermal Baths.

Szechenyi Thermal Baths

Szechenyi Thermal Baths: A Budapest Highlight

This iconic establishment is not only the most renowned but also the largest thermal spring bath in Budapest. With over a century of history, the Szechenyi Thermal Baths attract crowds year-round. If you're considering a visit, especially on weekends, booking tickets in advance is essential. Avoid third-party booking sites like TripAdvisor and instead, book directly through the official website to ensure availability.

Featuring 15 indoor pools and 3 outdoor pools, the baths offer a full day of relaxation and enjoyment. While there are options for refreshments onsite, including beers and food, here are a few essential tips to enhance your experience. The venue enforces strict regulations, requiring visitors to bring swimwear, flip-flops, and a towel. Forgetting any of these essentials can result in pricey purchases on-site—I learned this the hard way when I forgot my flip-flops and had to contemplate remortgaging my house. True story.

Soaking in the Hot Baths

No need to fret about taxis or transportation logistics—simply hop on the underground for less than 2 euros, and you'll be on your way. Plus, all the signs are conveniently in English, making navigation a breeze. That's precisely what we did, and it turned out to be a fantastic day. After hours of walking, soaking our muscles in the thermal baths was pure bliss, and we even indulged in a couple of pints as a well-deserved treat.

Exploring Culinary Delights

When it came to dining, we made a conscious effort to indulge in traditional Hungarian cuisine, and let me tell you about one gem we discovered. Now, pay close attention because I spent three days in the company of the UK's leading Goulash critic—I've got some insider knowledge for you.

That evening, we ventured to Terv Presszo, a delightful spot serving up authentic Hungarian fare. The portions were generous, the prices reasonable, and the atmosphere inviting. Whether you choose to dine al fresco or indoors, you're in for a treat. Plus, it's conveniently located, so chances are you'll stumble upon it during your wanderings. If you're looking to satisfy your hunger without emptying your wallet, this is the place to be. And hey, Terv Presszo, if you're listening, I think a free meal is in order for this glowing recommendation when I return.

Nightlife in Budapest: The Jewish Quarter

On Saturday night, we were determined to make up for the lackluster atmosphere we experienced the night before. I wasn't in the mood for just a few quiet beers—I was ready to let loose, drink, dance, and maybe even charm a few ladies with my incomprehensible Northern English accent. Like any true Brit, we stuck to what we knew best, and for us, that meant heading back to the Jewish Quarter.

As we wandered through the lively arcades dotted with pubs and bars, the atmosphere was electric—a perfect blend of excitement and camaraderie. However, I must warn you, if you're a fan of cocktails and spirits, be prepared to dig a little deeper into your pockets. After a couple of local beers, we decided to up the ante and switched to spirits, embracing the liquid courage to hit the dance floor with abandon.

Our journey eventually led us to Otkert Club, a central hotspot boasting a spacious dance floor and a playlist filled with all the latest hits. This place was tailor-made for dancers like us. If you're the type who prefers to sit back and avoid the blaring music, you might want to consider exploring other options. But for us, it was the perfect setting to dance the night away, even if we did shed a tear or two when we checked our online banking the next day. A decent night out in Budapest will set you back anywhere from £60 to £100, depending on how deep your pockets are feeling that night.

Day 3: A Serene Escape to Szentendre

Despite nursing hangovers, we eagerly embarked on a day trip to the charming town of Szentendre near Budapest. Renowned for its picturesque cobbled streets and vibrant 18th-century architecture, highlighted by the towering Blagoveštenska Church, Szentendre offers a serene respite from urban life. Originally a thriving Serbian community in the 18th century, it later evolved into an artists’ colony in the 1920s, attracting creatives and art enthusiasts alike.

Szentendre

As we meandered through the town, admiring its vibrant hues, we stumbled upon a tranquil lake where we savored gelato cones. There were plenty of restaurants around for a spot of lunch, and we discovered a famous street adorned with colorful umbrellas, providing the perfect photo opportunity.

Encountering the Unpredictable

However, the highlight—or perhaps lowlight—of our trip occurred during our train journey back. Seated separately to enjoy some personal space, my friend and I encountered an intriguing yet somewhat menacing stranger. Clad in football hooligan attire and sporting a plethora of tattoos, he struck up a conversation, revealing his dual residency in Budapest and Szentendre.

Despite no invitation, he took a seat next to me, diving into a conversation about football. His demeanor was friendly, almost overly so, as he eagerly shared anecdotes and showcased his artwork. Yet, beneath his amiable facade lurked an unsettling persistence. Ignoring our attempts at polite deflection, he insisted we join him at his bar, growing increasingly insistent despite our polite refusals.

Throughout the journey, he peppered us with questions, trying to glean information about our plans and subtly probing to discover our intended stop. As the train rumbled on, his behavior grew more unnerving, with constant glances and veiled implications that he would follow us. Engrossed in his phone, he seemed to be texting and making calls in Hungarian, further adding to our unease.

Deciding to act, we feigned an exit at a random station, hoping to shake him off our trail. Our hearts pounding, we watched as he rose to follow, only to breathe a sigh of relief as we successfully slipped away amidst the crowded platform.

Reflecting on the encounter, we couldn't shake the feeling that we narrowly avoided a potentially dangerous situation. Despite the chilling experience, it served as a stark reminder of the unpredictability of solo travel and the importance of vigilance in unfamiliar environments.

Final Thoughts

Ending our eventful day, we opted for an early night, feeling the weariness from our explorations weighing heavily upon us. With plans to journey to Bratislava the following day, we were determined not to miss our train or suffer the consequences of a hangover or exhaustion. One of the underrated aspects of Budapest is its strategic location, offering easy access to neighboring countries via train. In under two hours, you can reach Bratislava, and even Vienna is within reach. The Czech Republic is a mere four-hour journey away, making it remarkably convenient to explore multiple countries in just a couple of days.

As always, I appreciate your company on this journey, and I hope you found these insights into our Budapest adventure both enjoyable and informative. Stay tuned for more travel tales in the future!