What to see in Budapest interests every tourist. We promise that the capital of Hungary will be able to surprise travelers of any age and at any time of the year, when traveling alone or with a guided tour. The history of the city of Budapest is very rich. It was the center of the Hunnic and Ottoman empires, and survived the devastation during the Mongol invasion. Having become the center of the province under the Romans, it was called Aquincum. In the Middle Ages, it was called Obuda. And only in the 19th century, by the merger of three cities - Buda, Pest and Obuda, the current capital was formed. Everyone knows that Buda is located on the right bank of the Danube and makes up one third of the capital. Pest is located on the opposite bank and occupies the rest of the territory. The main attractions of Hungary in Budapest are located in this area. Obuda is the oldest district of the capital of Hungary, located on the northern border of the city. As a result, one of the most beautiful capitals of the European state was formed.
The sights in the city center are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. They can be seen on car tours, or you can walk to discover the most interesting places in Budapest. We have put together a small guide to the sights of Budapest for you. With its help, you can learn about the historical districts of the city, its squares, ancient castles and palaces, popular museums and other tourist places that you can see in a week.
Hungarian Parliament Building
The huge building, which houses about 700 rooms, has long become one of the main attractions of Budapest. More than 500 thousand tourists visit it annually. The architects executed it in the neo-gothic style. The facade is replete with a large number of arches, towers, sculptures of historical figures of Hungary. The interior decoration is also magnificent with its gold and carved decorations. The cost of the excursion is 6700 HUF. In the reviews, tourists are advised to purchase tickets via the Internet (on the official website parlament.hu) because of the long queues at the ticket office.
Located at: Kossuth Lajos tér 1-3.
Buda fortress
Another of the main attractions of the capital of Hungary. The history of the city originates from it. The fortress was built as a defensive facility, but later became the palace of the royal Habsburg dynasty. The most famous museums and monuments, churches are located on the territory. "The fortress and the hill on which it is located are very interesting with medieval alleys with different architectural styles." The entire fortress complex is under the protection of UNESCO.
Danube embankment shoes
One of the most unusual and exciting Holocaust monuments. At the water's edge, 60 pairs of cast-iron shoes are arranged in a chaotic manner: men's boots, women's shoes, children's sandals. The idea of the monument perfectly conveys the depth of the tragedy that took place in the 20th century. On the banks of the Danube, the Nazis, before the mass executions of Hungarian Jews, forced them to take off their shoes, then chained a whole group of people and shot at one. A man fell into the river and pulled others with him.
Address: Antall József rkp.
National Museum
In the list of museums worth visiting in Budapest, in the first place is the museum, created in 1802 on the basis of a large private collection of Count Széchenyi, which he donated to the state. For such a collection, a special building with a neoclassical style was built, which became the decoration of the city. All exhibits tell about the rich history of the country. Entrance - 2600 HUF.
Address: Múzeum krt. 14-16.
Museum of the History of Budapest
Having visited the exposition of this museum, you will see all the sights of Budapest with photos and descriptions, learn about its past and present. Several permanent exhibitions exhibit archaeological materials, household items, various decorations and more. In the mid-70s of the last century, 160 statues were found in the basement of the city house, which are also on display. Entrance fee is 2000 forints.
Great synagogue
It is not without reason that they call it that, because in all of Europe it is indeed the largest synagogue, and in the world it is in second place in terms of size. It was erected in 1959 on the territory of the Jewish quarter in the Pest region. A huge building of 1200 sq. meters can simultaneously take 3 thousand people. In the courtyard of the synagogue, you can see a cemetery with seven thousand Jews buried here, who died during the Nazi era. The cost of the visit is 4500 forints.
Located at Dohány u. 2.
Szechenyi chain bridge
Suspension bridges are common in Europe. One of them has been connecting Buda and Pest since 1849. An interesting fact is that this bridge was both the first and the only bridge across the Danube. The name was given to him because of the metal chains that support the roadbed. And he bears the name Széchenyi in honor of the philanthropist and politician who financed the construction. There are sculptures of lions at the entrance and exit of the bridge. For pedestrians, there are paths along which they can easily cross the bridge in 15 minutes.
Location: Széchenyi Lánchíd.
Fisherman's Bastion
On any map of Budapest with attractions, this object is designated as one of the most popular. Located on a hill in the historic part of Buda, the white-stone bastion is visible from everywhere. The place is very fabulous due to its architecture: many turrets, arcades, balustrades, viewing platforms. The name of the bastion is associated with the fish market that once existed here.
Located at Szentháromság tér.
Opera theatre
Another beautiful neo-renaissance building that is the pride of Hungary. The acoustics of the hall are second only to the world famous La Scala and the Grand Opera. In front of the opera building, the author of the national anthem Ferenc Erkel and the composer Ferenc Liszt are immortalized in monuments on pedestals. You can see the luxury of the interior of the opera house as part of a guided tour (2490 HUF). Ticket prices range from 450 to 14,500 HUF. "A dress code in the theater is required only on premiere days."
Located at: Andrássy út 22
Margaret Island
A wonderful vacation spot, located in the center of the capital, right in the middle of the Danube. On a small island with a length of 2.5 km and a width of 500 m, there is a gorgeous arboretum, where people come just to relax, breathe fresh air and enjoy the view of beautiful vegetation.
Gellert Bath
Unusual places for excursions in the capital of Hungary are the baths. Gellert is perhaps the most beautiful of them all. In terms of architecture, it can be mistaken for a palace. The decoration features stucco moldings, bronze statues, marble interiors, beautiful stained-glass windows. Here you can not only take baths with mineral water from hot springs, but it is interesting to see the whole complex. "Tip: take your swimwear with you on your trip, because they are expensive to rent." The ticket price is 5900 HUF.
Address: Kemenes u. one.
Heroes Square
On any city tour, this area is a must-see. The opening of the composition was timed to coincide with the 1000th anniversary of Hungary. In the center there is a monument - a 36-meter column with the figure of the Archangel Gabriel. Equestrian sculptures of Hungarian leaders are installed along the pedestal. Behind the column are two colonnades, each 85 meters long, in a semicircle. Every tourist tries to take a photo of a sight in Budapest for his photo library.
Located at Hősök tere.
Vaidahunyad Castle
One of the amazing sights of Budapest is not a castle. On the occasion of the 100th anniversary of Hungary, a "Historical Pavilion" was built, in which elements of the most significant buildings of the country were connected. Vaidahunyad Castle became the most prominent of all, so after the celebrations, the pavilion was dismantled, erected in stone and got its name. The castle building is unusually beautiful and will decorate any photo.
Address: Vajdahunyad stny.
Basilica of St. Stephen
The building is located in the Pest region, erected in honor of the founder of Hungary - King Stephen 1.In addition to the beautiful architecture and rich interior, tourists can visit the organ and choral concerts that are held here, as well as visit one of the best observation platforms overlooking Budapest and the Danube. Visit to the observation deck and the Basilica Museum - 1000 HUF.
Located at: Szent István ter 1.
Zoo
Do not even doubt where to go in Budapest with children. It is one of the oldest zoos in the world, opened in 1866 and boasting beautiful Art Nouveau architecture. Today there are about 3000 representatives of the fauna in it. “At the entrance you will be given a card. We advise you to follow counterclockwise to see the most popular animals here. " The ticket price for adults is 3000 HUF, for children - 2000 HUF.
Museum "Hospital in the Rock"
If, after viewing the historical sights, you wondered “what else to visit in Budapest,” we suggest a museum housed in a rock. During the war, the underground labyrinths served as a bomb shelter, and during the Cold War, a hospital was equipped here for possible victims of nuclear destruction. The exposition contains a lot of materials related to the events of the Second World War and nuclear weapons. Entrance - 5000 HUF.
Memento Park
This museum is interesting because it contains sculptures created during the communist rule in Hungary. All of them were dismantled during the period of decommunization and were installed in the park that opened in 1993. No wonder the name of the museum means "remember". At the entrance, visitors are greeted by an unusual monument to Stalin in the form of two boots on a pedestal. Once it was a tall monument, but it was cut down at the level of the boots. In addition, there are various monuments to Lenin, Engels, a telephone booth, a memorial of friendship between the USSR and Hungary, and similar exhibits. Entrance - 1500 HUF.
"Invisible" exhibition
We can tell you what to see in Hungary, except for the most popular objects. This is a museum that tells about the life and behavior of blind people. The museum is completely dark, the guides are also blind people. They will guide you through the rooms, where you will be guided only by sounds and touch objects with your hands. The ticket price is 1700 HUF.
Matthias Church
The church of St. Mary, built in the middle of the 13th century, was later renamed in honor of King Matthias, who was married twice here. The building is so beautiful that even the Turks in the 16th century did not dare to destroy it. Although it has undergone many changes in its history, today Matthias Church is one of the most beautiful churches in the world. The interior design is no less beautiful: colored bends, murals on the walls. The ticket price is 1800 HUF.
Address: Szentháromság ter 2.
Central market
Where to go in Budapest for experiences and souvenirs is the central market in Budapest. There are tons of Hungarian memorabilia on offer here. The market building is no less interesting, more like a museum than a crowded place. Stucco walls and forged elements are very beautiful. A lot of windows and arches, a roof of multicolored tiles decorate this building very much.
Market address: Vámház krt. 1-3.
Caves of Budapest
No other capital city in the world, except Budapest, can boast of caves. And in Budapest they are: Semlohedi and Palveldi. The whole city stands on a whole system of underground labyrinths, many of which have not yet been explored. "When visiting the caves, stock up on warm clothes." Entrance to the first one - 1400 HUF, when visiting two caves - 2000 HUF.
Andrássy Avenue
The second name of this main avenue of the capital of Hungary is "Budapest Champs Elysees". Due to the beauty and grandeur of the attractions located on it, it is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. The avenue was named at the end of the 19th century in honor of Hungarian Prime Minister Gyula Andras. And also the oldest underground metro line in Eurasia runs under it.
Address: Andrássy út.
Hotel Boscolo
Another chic building of the 19th century in the center of Budapest, which has the second name New York Palace. Initially, it was conceived as an office of an insurance company, but later it was rebuilt into a pretentious hotel. Not only the architecture amazes the imagination, but also the decoration of the interiors. The hotel is also famous for the fact that it houses the world-famous pompous New York cafe.
Address: Erzsébet krt. 9/11
Useful travel information:
- The best and interesting excursions in Budapest in Russian.
- A selection of places for tourists where it is better to stay in the city center and near tourist sites.
- Review of prices for food, meals, tickets, other financial issues.
House of Terror
This gloomy building differs from the ornate architectural facades of most buildings in Budapest. Gloomy light gray color, canopy with the embossed word "terror". This is a museum that tells about the dictatorship of fascism and communism. In the old days, the building housed a prison, in the cells of which the most severe torture was carried out. All exhibits are associated with these events and inspire fear. The more acutely the facts of history are felt. Entrance ticket - 3000 HUF.
Address: Andrassy ut 60.
Mount Gellert
The hill is very clearly visible from afar and is one of the most interesting places to see in Budapest for a tourist. From here a beautiful panorama of the city and the Danube opens up. There are also many attractions: the Habsburg fortress, the monument to St. Gellert, the philosophical garden with the figures of philosophers. And on the top of the mountain, the Statue of Liberty is installed in the form of a woman with a palm branch at Gellérthegy.
Cable car
You can get around the Buda hills using the cable car, built in 1970. It will take you from the Zugliget area to Mount Janos. The route runs in such a way that every time more and more new panoramas of the city are opened. Millions of people have already transported open double hanging chairs during their existence. The ticket price is 1200 forints.
Cafe "Gerbeau"
For coffee lovers, we will also show you what interesting things in Budapest can be for them. It is an iconic establishment with 19th century interiors and high-quality service. The coffee house has not changed at all since its inception: marble floors and walls, bronze and precious woods, carpets everywhere, chic antique chandeliers on the ceilings. It serves exquisite signature desserts and, of course, with an unforgettable coffee aroma.
Located at Vörösmarty tér, 9
Flea Market Ecseri
For those who like to delve into antiques, we recommend that you proceed to the outskirts of the city, where the market selling "real treasures" is located. Here you can find everything: antiques, unique porcelain, rare paintings, clothes from different fashionable eras, exhibits from the times of the war and just trinkets.
Located at the Használtcikk piac bus stop (100 meters) along the Nagykörösi road.
Nyugati Railway Station
No less interesting is one of the three railway station buildings, the most impressive and beautiful. It was built by the company of the notorious Gustave Eiffel and was completed in 1877. Moreover, it took place with the old station working and the pavilion was built on top of it, and after the completion of the construction, the old structures were dismantled.
Address: Nyugati tér 56
Railway Museum
Next to Nyugati Station is the Railway Museum, the largest in Europe. All of its 100 exhibits are in the open air. A visit to the museum will be very interesting for children, as there are many interactive entertainments. The ticket price for adults is 1400 HUF, for children - 600 HUF. Open from 10 am to 6 pm on weekdays, weekends until 5 pm.
The address: Tatai út 95.
Excursions in Budapest in Russian
Attractions of Budapest on the map
The best hotels in Budapest
Where to eat deliciously and inexpensively in Budapest?
Now let's take a look at the best restaurants in Budapest with national cuisine (Hungarian), some options will suit those who like a panoramic view from the window. All establishments with delicious local cuisine and a low price tag on the menu.
Places with stunning views:
- A restaurant Búsuló Juhász at Gellert Hill Kelenhegyi st. 58 overlooking the city. This place with excellent serving is perfect for an evening dinner for two.
- An establishment from the side of Buda and overlooking the river and Pest - Dubarry Restaurant at Wekerle Sandor utca 1.We advise you to visit here on a warm summer evening and taste the local cuisine at an outdoor table.
- A similar establishment with a view of the Danube and a summer terrace - DNB Budapest at Duna korzó Budapest (Marriott Hotel). If you don't get here in the summer, then be sure to look in in bad weather, there is a stunning view inside thanks to the panoramic windows.
- And another summer place with a view of the lake and the historic castle - Varosliget Cafe & Restaurant located on Olof Palme setany 5. There are also no complaints about the cuisine, it would be better to visit here in the evening, when the lights of the city at night are on.
Dubarry Restaurant
Gourmet restaurants:
- There is little for food lovers in Budapest, but tasty, we definitely recommend visiting Uncensored Restaurant on Erzsebet krt. 43-49. The serving is amazing. The interior also deserves special attention; a picture is projected on the walls for different interests. In general, the team stood out for their creativity and got into our rating of the best restaurants where you should definitely visit.
- The chic interior will make you relax in Zincenco kitchen on Bihari Janos utca 20. Serving dishes and decoration at a height, comfortable chairs for long meetings for two or a family, average prices in the city.
- Well, the third option, where you can eat deliciously in Budapest and sit in a calm atmosphere with dim lights - Babel budapest on Piarista koz 2.
Babel budapest
Useful information for an independent trip:
- What to taste delicious in Budapest? We have collected the best Hungarian cuisine that will open up new flavors.
- Where to visit in 3 days? The route of walking around the main attractions with photos and descriptions.