How does Paul RYKEN recommend planning a one-day itinerary in Budapest?

Key Focus Areas

1. Morning – Buda:

   1. Bus 16 or 216 from Deák Ferenc tér to Fisherman’s Bastion for views
   2. Coffee/strudel at Buda Rétesvár
   3. Explore Buda Castle (Castle Museum or National Gallery)
   4. Walk down to Várkert Bazár, brunch at Zileat if hungry
   5. Cross Chain Bridge or Elizabeth Bridge back to Pest
2. Midday/early afternoon – Pest:

   1. Join the “Highlights and Secrets of Budapest” free walking tour from St Stephen’s Basilica at noon (book ahead). It’s about 3.5 hours and adds a lot of context and stories.
3. Late afternoon – uniquely Budapest:

   1. Option A: Thermal baths – Rudas (central, rooftop pool over the Danube) or Széchenyi (grand architecture)
   2. Option B: Hungarian wine/food – tasting at Bortársaság Borsuli, visit the Great Market Hall, or a Hungarian cooking class
4. Evening – music instead of a cruise:

   1. Check concerts at the Franz Liszt Academy, Hungarian House of Music, or St Stephen’s Basilica (organ concerts Friday)
   2. For jazz, try Budapest Jazz Club or Opus Jazz Club