Long weekend in Budapest: the ultimate guide, from our experts

The glitzy interiors of the restored Opera House is well worth a stopJerome Galland

Day Two

Morning

Start with a coffee under the soaring arcade of Párisi Udvar, where Art Nouveau, Moorish and Gothic influences blend in a harmony of stained glass, carved stone, and patterned tiles. Then walk to Rózsavölgyi Csokoládé, a specialist chocolatier, for something sweet from their handmade selection, before continuing to Kaczián, a third-generation family-run shop selling handmade silk ties, scarves, and handkerchiefs. Next-door, Folkart Kézművesház, is a treasure-trove of authentic Hungarian crafts, from ceramics to embroidered textiles and clothing – ideal for unique souvenirs.

Párisi Udvar is an impressive place to start your morning, with a coffee under a decadent ceilingTamas Bujnovszky

Visit Nanushka Store and Cafe for a cosy pit stopJerome Galland

From here stroll to the flagship store of Nanushka, the city’s best-known contemporary fashion label, before cutting through Erzsébet Park, passing the small Michael Jackson memorial (the singer once waved to fans from his room in the Kempinski Corvinus Hotel), towards St Stephen’s Basilica. Its terrace, reached by 364 steps or a lift, offers panoramic views over central Pest (entry about €6 for the church, about €12 including treasury and terrace). If time allows, the magnificently restored Opera House on Andrássy út is worth visiting for a guided tour of its interior (about €27).

The Four Seasons Gresham Palace is an Art Nouveau landmark in BudapestJerome Galland

The glamorous Muzsa bar at Gresham Palace, BudapestJerome Galland

Afternoon

Lunch on the terrace of Flava, an Asian-Peruvian fusion restaurant on leafy Szabadság tér, or pick up a pastry from Artizan, a local favourite known for its excellent baking. Afterwards, wander down Falk Miksa utca, dipping into its many antique shops, auction houses, and galleries, until the dome and spires of the Hungarian Parliament come into view. Turn towards the river and follow the Danube promenade on foot or take tram 2 for scenic views of Buda’s hills across the water. End the afternoon with a drink or a cup of tea at MÚZSA in the Four Seasons Gresham Palace, an Art Nouveau landmark overlooking the Chain Bridge.