Strategically located on the Danube River and bordering seven nations, Budapest stands as a crossroads of cultures, commerce and history. Stroll along the riverbank and discover why it’s known as the “Pearl of the Danube,” with breathtaking views of Parliament, Fisherman’s Bastion, Buda Castle and the Chain Bridge. While here, you’ll also have the chance to look at the city through a business lens. Explore how Budapest has become an attractive hub for both local startups and international investment and gain insights into the sectors driving growth in Central Europe.
* Please note that this is only a sample itinerary for an ISP Go program. While our itineraries are tailor-made and can accommodate any academic level and theme, these itineraries offer limited changes, depending on the needs of the client. All itineraries are subject to change.
Day 1: Saturday, April 26Sat April 26Day 1: welcome to Hungary
Budapest, Hungary
Hungary, nestled in the heart of Central Europe, shares borders with Austria, Slovakia, Ukraine, Romania, Serbia, Croatia, and Slovenia, making it a true crossroads of cultures within Europe. Once a centrally planned economy, it has transformed into a vibrant market-oriented nation and an active member of the European Union. Budapest, its captivating capital, is often called the 'Pearl of the Danube', renowned for its thermal baths, majestic architecture, and thriving cultural life. With a history stretching back over a millennium, Hungary seamlessly blends its rich traditions in music, literature, and cuisine with a forward-looking spirit, emerging as a dynamic hub for innovation and manufacturing in Europe.
intercity transfersarrive Budapest
Own arrangements
Meet ISP Representative at the airport.
own arrangements
afternoon
transportationtransfer to hotel, check in
bus transfer
rest of the day at leisure
ISPer's recommendation: Grab dinner at the Karaván food court, located in the heart of the Jewish quarter, in a courtyard nestled between some of the city's most famous ruin pubs. Karaván gives home to numerous food trucks and booths serving street food from around the world, offering a wide array of options from Hungarian lángos, to Neapolitan pizza, Thai noodles and Mexican tacos.
Day 2: Sunday, April 27Sun April 27Day 2: discovering the gems of Budapest
breakfast
hotel
transportationmeet in hotel lobby, depart for city tour
bus half day
morning
cultural eventhighlights of Budapest – panoramic guided tour
Take a panoramic guided tour of the Hungarian capital, and discover the city's architectural treasures, with enough Baroque, Neoclassical, Eclectic and Art Nouveau buildings to satisfy everyone. Start your tour by a drive through Andrássy Avenue, a tree-lined boulevard housing governmental buildings and embassies, then explore the main sites of the Heroes' Square and the City Park. After this, cross the river through the historical Chain Bridge to the hilly Buda side, and close your tour at the Fisherman's Bastion and the Buda Castle, admiring the city down under.
bus/walk
mealswelcome lunch in a traditional Hungarian restaurant
Enjoy a delightful welcome lunch in a charming traditional setting, where you’ll immerse yourself in local culture with a special strudel baking demonstration. Savor a selection of classic dishes made from fresh, local ingredients, showcasing the authentic flavors of the region. The warm and inviting atmosphere provides the perfect backdrop to connect with your group, discover the artistry of strudel making, and set the tone for the memorable experiences ahead.
restaurant
rest of the day at leisure
ISPer's recommendation: Make your way to the Citadel atop Gellért Hill for one of the best panoramic views of Budapest. The climb may be steep, but the breathtaking vista from the top is worth every step. As you stand at the summit, you’ll be treated to a stunning perspective of the city, with the Danube River winding through the heart of Budapest, the majestic Buda Castle, and the sweeping skyline of Pest. From here, you can spot landmarks like the Liberty Bridge, the Parliament, and the Gellért Baths, each adding to the city’s rich tapestry. The Citadel offers not just a fantastic view but also a chance to immerse yourself in Budapest’s history, making it a truly memorable experience.
Day 3: Monday, April 28Mon April 28Day 3: charting the local business landscape
breakfast
hotel
transportationmeet in hotel lobby, depart for visit
Since regaining independence in 1989, Hungary has positioned itself as a pivotal player in the Central and Eastern European (CEE) region, offering a strategic location and advanced business infrastructure. With access to the EU's single market and a highly skilled workforce, the country has become a hub for foreign direct investment, attracting 45 of the world’s 80 largest multinational corporations. Hungary's economic significance within the CEE region and the wider EU is underscored by its role as a gateway between East and West, bolstered by robust manufacturing, technology, and service sectors. How does Hungary’s approach to economic development stack up against its regional peers, and what lessons can be learned from its successes and ongoing challenges?
presentation, discussion
mealslunch: own arrangements
Own arrangements
rest of the day at leisure
ISPer's recommendation: Decompress after a morning of learning and new encounters at the Széchenyi Baths, one of the largest and most ornate spa complexes in Europe, featuring three outdoor pools and a warren of indoor ones, saunas and steam rooms. In the main pool, the sight of old locals playing chess in the water is one of the classic images of Budapest. Planned from 1868, completed in 1913, the spa is both a neo-Baroque landmark and feat of water engineering.
Day 4: Tuesday, April 29Tue April 29Day 4: bringing banking into the digital age
breakfast
hotel
transportationmeet in hotel lobby, depart for visit
public transport
morning
visitunlocking Hungary's fintech potential – strategies for successff. next
Hungary’s fintech landscape is rapidly evolving, driven by increasing adoption of mobile banking solutions and a growing demand for digital convenience. While traditional banks are embracing technology to stay competitive, fintech disruptors face challenges such as regulatory complexities and building consumer trust in a market dominated by established players. Despite these hurdles, Hungary’s openness to innovation and government support for digital transformation offer significant opportunities. Explore how fintech is reshaping the financial sector and the strategies needed to succeed in this dynamic market.
management presentation, discussion
mealslunch: own arrangements
Own arrangements
rest of the day at leisure
ISPer's recommendation: Spend an afternoon at the picturesque New York Café. Considered the most beautiful café in the world when it opened in 1894, this neo-Renaissance style café on the ground floor of the New York Palace Hotel has been the scene of many a literary gathering. If you yearn for a touch of aristocratic atmosphere, drop in for a coffee and immerse yourself in authentic 19th century surroundings amid gilded and marble surfaces, ornamented with carved wood and crystal. A majestic spot with authentic tradition.
Day 5: Wednesday, April 30Wed April 30Day 5: shaping the future of mobility
breakfast
hotel
transportationmeet in hotel lobby, depart for visit
bus half day
morning
cultural eventadvancing automotive design – tour of the Audi Győr car plant
Hungary's automotive industry is one of the key pillars of the national economy. Over 800,000 cars are produced in the country annually and there are large production facilities for a number of leading brands such as Audi, Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Opel. Hear from key players in the industry about how these complex operations are managed both operationally and financially, and gain first hand insights into the operations of an automotive production plant.
bus/walk
mealslunch: own arrangements
Own arrangements
rest of the day at leisure
ISPer's recommendation: Head to the Great Market Hall for a vibrant culinary experience in the heart of Budapest. This historic, three-storey building is a feast for the senses, where you can sample traditional Hungarian dishes like goulash, lángos, and chimney cake. As you wander through the stalls, you’ll discover a variety of local specialties and delicacies perfect for food souvenirs, such as paprika, salami, and artisan chocolates. The colorful atmosphere and bustling energy make it an ideal spot to savor authentic flavors while picking up unique gifts to take home. From the rich aroma of spices to the display of handmade products, the Great Market Hall is a must-visit for any food lover.
Day 6: Thursday, May 1Thu May 1Day 6: building inclusive communities
breakfast
hotel
transportationmeet in hotel lobby, depart for visit
The escalation of the conflict in Ukraine has forced people to flee their homes and seek refuge, safety and protection abroad. Millions of refugees from Ukraine have crossed borders into neighboring countries, and many more have been forced to move inside the country. The EU has granted Ukrainians the automatic right to stay and work throughout its 27 member nations for up to three years. Refugees are housed in reception centers if they can't stay with friends or relatives. They are given food and medical care, and information about onward travel. Meet with the representatives of an organization aiding refugees, engage with their volunteer staff and learn about the important work they do.
management presentation, discussion
mealslunch: own arrangements
Own arrangements
rest of the day at leisure
ISPer's recommendation: Hopping on tram 2 is one of the most beautiful and cheapest ways of sightseeing in Budapest, as it goes along the Danube riverbank, conveying you past the iconic buildings from Jászai Mari square to the National Theatre – and all of this costs the price of a public transportation ticket, or two if you want to do the return journey.
Day 7: Friday, May 2Fri May 2Day 7: catalyzing start-up success
breakfast
hotel
transportationmeet in hotel lobby, depart for visit
public transport
morning
visitunleashing innovation – inside Hungary's emerging tech ecosystemImpact Hub Budapest
The Hungarian start-up and technology ecosystem is rapidly growing. With the success of Prezi and other Hungarian-born ventures such as Ustream, GreenGo and LogMeIn, start-ups in the field of fintech and blockchain have shown great development over the last years. Nevertheless many of the most successful local start-ups choose to establish their base in the US, rather than in Hungary. This is due to the lack of international growth prospects, marketing and business competencies, as well as the limited pool of tech talent available locally. Visit a Budapest-based accelerator and learn about the strengths and weaknesses of the Hungarian start-up ecosystem.
management presentation, discussion, tour of facilities
mealslunch: own arrangements
Own arrangements
afternoon
free for sightseeing & shopping
ISPer's recommendation: Take a visit to the MOL Campus and enjoy panoramic views over the city of Budapest. The 143 meter-tall, futuristic all-glass structure has 28 floors and accommodates 2,500 employees. Once on top, the SkyDeck offers an unusual perspective on the city. Instead of seeing the famous sights such as the Parliament or the Buda Castle, you are welcomed by a different but equally stunning landscape. You can spot the Infopark, the Rákóczi Bridge, the National Theatre, the Ludwig Museum, and the neighborhoods of Újbuda and Csepel.
transportationmeet in hotel lobby, depart for farewell dinner cruise
public transport
evening
mealsfarewell dinner cruise on the Danube river
Set sail on a farewell dinner cruise along the Danube River, where you’ll enjoy stunning views of Budapest’s iconic landmarks illuminated against the night sky. As you glide past the majestic Parliament building, the Buda Castle, and the Chain Bridge, the city’s beauty unfolds from every angle. Relish a delicious dinner while taking in the breathtaking scenery of both Buda and Pest. Reflect on the memories made and the experiences shared as the boat drifts gently along the river.
boat/restaurant
Day 8: Saturday, May 3Sat May 3Day 8: heading home
