Morning
The Gellért Spa Baths are one of the most popular spas in Budapest situated at the bottom of Gellert Hill. There has been a medicinal spring here since the 13th century and today these baths come complete with stained glass windows, artistic mosaics and Art Nouveau furnishings. Wallow all morning in the warm waters and treat yourself to a relaxing massage afterwards.
Noon
Refreshed, enjoy a walk along World Heritage Listed Andrássy Avenue, the main tree lined street on the Pest side that is complete with grand historical mansions and buildings from the 19th century, many of which have been converted to elegant hotels, restaurants and shops. Stop for coffee and lunch at the romantic Két Szerecsen restaurant, just off Andrássy Avenue on Nagymező utca.
Afternoon
Continue walking up Andrássy Avenue to reach the most spectacular square in the city, Heroes’ Square and the gateway to the City Park. Perhaps take in an exhibition at the Museum of Fine Arts, before taking a romantic stroll in the park, and visiting the fairytale Vajdahunyad Castle where you can finish off the afternoon by skating at the winter ice rink in its grounds.
Evening
One of the most romantic places for dinner is the unique Robinson Restaurant, situated on its own island in the City Park Lake. Views over the lake are fabulous as the light fades and the warm and cosy atmosphere of this special place really make the occasion. Perfect for a proposal, Valentine’s dinner or anniversary!
Morning
Start the day with a walk around the World Heritage Listed Castle District on the Buda side that is packed with ancient monuments, medieval cobbled streets and 18th and 19th century buildings. The views are also spectacular either from the Fisherman’s Bastion or the grounds of the Royal Palace and there are plenty cosy cafes to warm up in with a hot chocolate or strong coffee.
Noon
After admiring the 400-year old gothic church, the famous Matthias Church which its unusual colourful roof have lunch right across the road at the Alabárdos Restaurant with its splendid atmosphere of the knight's hall of a medieval castle. Be sure to try the famous Hungarian goose liver!
Afternoon
Wine lovers should check out the House of Royal Wine and the Cellar Museum, where part of the cellar once belonged to the Royal Palace. Hungarian wine is gaining in international reputation and with 22 wine regions offering producing both red and white wine it is well worth doing a wine tasting tour to try some of them!
Evening
Visit the Citadella at Gellert Hill for fabulous views over the city from a different perspective and variety of museums and attractions to see, as well as the Citadella Restaurant to have dinner in afterwards.
Morning
Discover the historical monuments on this slender island running between Árpád Bridge and Margaret Bridge that date back to the 11th century. The capitals most beautiful park is on this island as well as the UNESCO-protected Water Tower and centuries old ruins such as a Dominican Nunnery.
Noon
Take in more views of the river whilst enjoying lunch at the historical boat restaurant and museum, Vén Hajó on the Danube.
Afternoon
Hop on bus number 21 from Moszkva tér uphill to the Normafa, a protected area of the Buda Hills around 15-minutes from the city. Admire amazing views of the city from Széchenyi look out tower and afterwards warm up with a hot mulled wine and a traditional ‘rétes’ (strudel) a freshly baked pastry from a nearby cafe.
Evening
In the evening enjoy a ballet, opera or other musical concert at the Hungarian State Opera House, one of the most opulent buildings in the city. It is designed in Italian renaissance style and is decorated with 24-carat gold leaves and murals of the greatest Hungarian painters adorn the walls.
Morning
Leave the city to explore the pretty town of Gödöllő, 30km northeast of the city and visit ‘Sissi Castle’ (Királyi Kastély), where the much loved Austrian-Hasburg Queen Elizabeth, known affectionately by Hungarians as ‘sissy’ spent much of her time. This fabulous Baroque Palace dating from 1733 has been lovely restored to its former glory and is well worth visiting.
Noon
Have a coffee and some cake in the grand Palace Café with its 250-year-old arched walls. The cafe has a unique and elegant atmosphere with the counter from the famous Friedl Confectioner's from the 1860's, the hand-made china services from Hollóháza and the waitresses dressed in period dresses.
Afternoon
For 29 years now the Budapest Spring Festival has been Hungary’s biggest cultural festival. The series of events is of international significance, too. It is noted in all countries; travel agencies receive the planned programme months in advance. In the last two weeks of March around 200 events await Hungarian and foreign tourists in 50-60 venues in Budapest. Besides classical music and jazz concerts, there are theatre performances, film screenings, open-air programmes and other festival-type events.
Evening
For the finale of your romantic weekend take a candlelit dinner cruise on one of Legenda’s glass boats that gently glides down the Danube, past all the lit up historical buildings and offers the perfect end to a wonderful holiday in one of the world’s most stunning cities.
Airport shopping
Use your very last minutes at the Airport and enjoy the discount with your BWI Card at Travel Value & Duty Free Shop. Shop around and take a piece of Hungary with you, make your friends and family envious about your fantastic trip to Budapest!
