Flying to Budapest

Budapest day one

24.04.2026 - 24.04.2026
View Budapest 2026 on ToonSarah's travel map.

Budapest shop sign

There was a tube strike on the day of our departure for Budapest, so we had to fork out for an Uber to Heathrow. Once there we were through security in no time, thanks in part to the new scanners that mean we no longer have to remove liquids, tablets etc from our bags.

We had breakfast in the Caffe Nero and then had a bit of a wait till our gate was up. Unusually for a BA flight from Heathrow we had to have a bus to the aircraft. We took off on time and enjoyed our pre-ordered light lunch (which had to be paid for, naturally).

Take-off from Heathrow

We landed 10 minutes early in bright sunshine. I'd been prepared to face long queues at passport control because of the introduction of the new EU systems, but it wasn’t too bad. We easily found the bus stop for the airport express, the 100E, and there was one just arriving – great timing! The ride into the city centre was pleasant, and once we arrived at the terminus, Deak Ferenc Ter, it was only about a five minute walk to the apartment we'd rented, called Colors of Budapest. While not large it was bright and welcoming, nicely furnished and with everything we would need for our short stay.

Colors of Budapest apartment

We unpacked and went for a wander in the immediate area to check out restaurants for breakfasts and dinners, and to soak up some afternoon sun.

St. Stephen's Basilica

Monument to Agnes Keleti (gymnast)

In the evening we went for a drink at Basilica (as the name suggests, near St Stephen's Basilica) then had dinner at the rather upmarket Aszu. It was worth the splurge as the food was absolutely delicious. Chris loved his gazpacho and chicken in paprika sauce, while I was equally impressed with my whipped goats cheese starter and duck main course. I also had a dessert with chocolate and apricot, and we drank a local red wine. Two musicians were playing off and on throughout - a traditional instrument a bit like a piano but with its strings struck directly with little hammers, and a double bass. The service was friendly and although as I said not cheap, we felt it was well worth what we paid (a bit over £100).

Goats cheese starter