We've put together a few suggestions to help you make the most of your time before the wedding:

Must see sights:

Parliament Building

Buda Castle

Fisherman's Bastion

Shoes on the Danube Bank

St. Stephen's Basilica

Jewish Quarter

Market Hall

Heroes‘ Square

Relax and Unwind:

Széchenyi Thermal Baths

Gellért Thermal Baths

Margaret Island (Rent a 4 seater bike and drive around!)

Drinks:

- Black Swan Budapest: Elegant speakeasy, enjoy masterfully crafted cocktails in a unique ambiance (ring the door bell when you arrive).

- Boutiq Bar: This spot holds a special place in Nicole's heart, as it's where she celebrated her 18th birthday! It's also our wedding cocktail bar. Join us for a drink and experience a bit of her history in this vibrant bar.

- 360 Rooftop Bar: Kickstart your Budapest adventure with a visit to this rooftop bar, offering views of the city skyline alongside refreshing drinks.

- Hotsy Totsy: In the heart of Budapest's nightlife scene, perfect for a fun night out.

- Bestia: Great views of the Basilica, outdoor seating and good for food.

- Szimpla Kert: A classic Budapest ruin bar, definitely worth visiting to experience what these are about!

For more: https://www.cntraveller.com/article/best-bars-in-budapest

Food:

Quick, Easy & Cheap:

- Pad Thai: You can't go wrong with this spot! This popular chain is everywhere in Budapest.

- Pizza Me: An absolute must try. This late-night spot is a Budapest staple and is open late into the night. If you're feeling adventurous, try the Nutella pizza.

- Bamba Marha Burger: Similarly to Pad Thai, dotted all across the city serving up great burgers.

- Zing Burger: Another local favourite, with locations across the city, it's a convenient and tasty choice for a casual meal.

Hungarian Food:

- Szep Ilona: A bit out of the way on the Buda side, this is our most recent favourite spot.

- Nancsi Neni: This local favourite serves up classic Hungarian dishes in a charming setting, complete with a lovely outdoor garden

- Stand 25: This Michelin-guide restaurant is one of our go-to spots for a special occasion. Don't miss their incredible dessert wine!

- Menza Etterem: Located in the city centre, Menza Etterem offers consistently good Hungarian food and usually has tables available.

- Retek Bistro: With its funky interior and delicious food, Retek Bistro offers a unique and memorable dining experience.

- Kehli Vendeglo: Located in District III (where Nicole grew up, and Philip and Nicole went to school!), this neighbourhood gem offers a truly authentic Hungarian experience.

What to order: Our favourites include, Goulash Soup, Fish Soup, Porkolt (a meat stew served with egg noodles), Chicken Paprikash (similarly served with egg noodles), Retes (Hungarian strudel). Hungary is famous for it's wine so definitely don't skip this!

Other cuisines:

-European - Kollazs - Upscale restaurant serving european food in the Four Seasons hotel. An occasion spot, but a definite must visit even for dessert and coffee on the terrace!

- Japanese: Tokio / Yama - Great Japanese spot, more on the upscale side nowadays.

- Italian: Trattoria P'omodoro / Aleli - Great central Italian, make sure to reserve in advance.

- Baalbek Budapest: Central Lebanese food, easy to get a table.

- Mazi Greek Kitchen: Great greek food, if that's what you're in the mood for.

For more: https://www.cntraveller.com/article/best-restaurants-in-budapest

Tips:

The local currency is the Hungarian Forint (HUF) but you can pay by card in most places.

September in Budapest means wine festival - visit the wine festival in Budapest Castle during the 12th-15th September to sample Budapest's best offerings! More info here: https://aborfesztival.hu/en