Top 25 Must-See Attractions in Budapest, Hungary

Budapest, the capital of Hungary, comprises three merged cities, with Buda and Óbuda positioned on the western bank of the Danube and Pest on the eastern bank. Much of Budapest has received UNESCO World Heritage Site designation, and numerous visitors regard it as one of the most visually striking cities in Europe.

TIP: Consider arranging tours and obtaining tickets in advance: Best tours in Budapest – The Budapest City Card grants free entry to museums, a guided tour, discounts, and unlimited access to public transportation.

The city successfully combines its rich history with a vibrant and relaxed contemporary artistic scene. A diverse array of attractions and activities awaits visitors, ranging from museums to thermal baths, ensuring that everyone can discover something of interest.

Let us explore the top attractions in Budapest:

1. Parliament Building

The Hungarian Parliament Building, constructed in the Gothic Revival architectural style, ranks among the largest buildings in Hungary and houses numerous parliamentary offices. Although the stunning structure presents an impressive sight from all perspectives, viewing it from the opposite bank of the Danube renders it even more spectacular.

Tours of select sections of the building are offered daily and are available in various languages. Visitors are required to present identification for entry, and bags may be subject to inspection. A popular guided tour is available here.

2. Gellért Baths

One of the most extravagant spas in the city is the Gellért Bath and Spa Center, featuring an open-air pool that transforms into a wave pool, an effervescent swimming pool, a Finnish sauna, and various other saunas and plunge pools.

Additionally, massages and other spa treatments are offered at supplementary charges. Originally built between 1912 and 1918 in an Art Nouveau style, the complex suffered significant damage during World War II. The entire spa underwent extensive renovations in 2008 to restore the baths to their former grandeur. Gellért Baths welcome visitors for mixed bathing throughout the week.

3. Heroes’ Square

Heroes’ Square (Hősök tere), located at the terminus of Andrassy Avenue, features a prominent monument depicting the Seven Chieftains of the Magyars, who are believed to have ushered the Hungarian people from Central Asia to the Carpathian Basin.

Atop the central column stands the Archangel Gabriel, who holds the Hungarian crown. Flanking the central pillar are two symmetrical colonnades, illustrating various historical Hungarian figures. The remarkable buildings on either side of the square host art galleries. Caution is advised when crossing the street to the statue, as traffic around the monument can be unpredictable.

4. Margaret Island

Margaret Island, measuring 2.5 kilometers in length, is located in the heart of the Danube and is adorned with parklands and recreational amenities.

Multiple companies offer rentals of pedal carts, golf carts, and other self-propelled vehicles, enabling a thorough exploration of the island.

A rubber-coated 5.5 km running track encircles the island, popular with runners seeking respite from the city’s frenetic pace. One of the island’s most notable attractions is the “music fountain,” which features water displays synchronized to classical music.

Other significant highlights of the island include medieval ruins and a small aviary primarily dedicated to rehabilitating injured waterfowl and wild birds.

5. Danube Promenade

This section of the Danube walkway stretches from the Elizabeth Bridge to the Chain Bridge, making it an ideal setting for those who wish to enjoy a brief yet intriguing stroll. Promenading alongside the Danube presents an excellent opportunity to view many of the city’s renowned landmarks.

Gazing toward the Buda side of the river reveals sights such as Buda Castle, the Liberty Statue on Gellért Hill, and the Fisherman’s Bastion. Along the Promenade, visitors can savor restaurants, cafes, Széchenyi István Square, and a variety of sculptures, including the Little Princess.

6. House of Terror

The House of Terror presents displays concerning the successive Fascist and Communist regimes that governed Hungary throughout the 20th Century. The building previously served as the headquarters for the Fascist Arrow Cross party and was later utilized as a prison and torture facility by Hungary’s State Security services.

Visitors can tour portions of the prison area located in the basement. The exhibition provides insights about both regimes along with testimonials from some of the victims. In addition to the exhibitions on the fascist and communist “security services,” the building frequently accommodates temporary exhibitions.

7. St. Stephen’s Basilica

As one of Hungary’s most significant religious structures, this basilica allows visitors to view the (alleged) right hand of Stephen, the first King of Hungary. Given that this is a sacred site, guests intending to enter the church are requested to ensure that their knees and shoulders are adequately covered.

For those undeterred by heights, ascending to the base of the dome affords a panoramic view of the city. On clear days, this vantage point offers an excellent perspective for surveying Budapest. The Basilica frequently hosts classical music concerts and organ performances, sometimes spilling into the square outside. Noteworthy is the option to experience an organ concert in the Basilica here.

8. Hungarian State Opera House

This Neo-Renaissance structure, inaugurated in 1884, was commissioned by Emperor Franz Joseph. Outside the building, visitors can observe statues of Ferenc Erkel (the composer of the Hungarian National Anthem) and Ferenc Liszt, the Hungarian composer.

The auditorium, seating 1200, is renowned as one of the finest venues for operatic performances globally; therefore, acquiring a ticket for a show is highly recommended.

Ticket prices begin as low as 500 HUF. Should you find yourself unable to attend a performance, guided tours of the Opera House are available throughout the day, but typically require prior arrangements.

9. Fisherman’s Bastion

Although the Fisherman’s Bastion may appear to be a medieval structure, it was actually constructed in the early 20th century in a neo-Gothic style, specifically designed as a panoramic viewing platform for gazing across the Danube, Margaret Island, and Pest.

The Bastion derives its name from the Guild of Fishermen, tasked with defending that segment of the city walls during the Middle Ages.

The seven towers of the Bastion symbolize the seven Magyar tribes that were instrumental in settling the Magyar people in the Carpathian Basin. Visiting at sunset grants a particularly stunning view of the city.

10. Invisible Exhibition

The Invisible Exhibition offers guests an opportunity to experience the life of individuals who are completely blind. A blind guide will escort you through various artificially created environments (garden, supermarket, bar, etc.) that exist entirely in darkness.

Upon arrival, you will be instructed to deactivate any potential light sources, such as mobile phones or digital watches, to ensure complete darkness inside the rooms. After completing the exhibition, participants may enjoy a meal in the dark, served by blind waiters who assist in navigating the dining experience.

11. Faust Wine Cellars

This historic wine cellar, situated beneath Buda Castle, serves as an ideal venue to taste wines from Hungary’s 22 distinct wine regions. Visitors also have the chance to sample traditional Hungarian fruit pálinka. A sommelier will provide tasting notes throughout the visit, enhancing the experience of each wine.

A variety of tasting programs are available, tailored to your time constraints and budget. Given the size of the cellars, reservations in advance are recommended.

12. Memento Park

This fascinating sculpture park now showcases several Communist monuments and statues that once adorned the city during the Communist Era.

These statues were either removed by the government as part of the decommunization efforts or were forcibly taken down by the Hungarian populace in protest against the previous regime.

When the park opened in 1993, it became a venue for displaying these monuments and presenting a significant chapter of the city’s history.

A small museum on-site features temporary exhibitions concerning life under the communist regime, including details about the Hungarian Secret Police.

13. Dohány Street Synagogue

This synagogue is currently recognized as one of the largest outside Israel, despite a considerable decline in Hungary’s Jewish population during World War II.

The interior and gardens underwent restoration in the 1990s, primarily funded by the global Hungarian Jewish diaspora.

In the garden, visitors can find a weeping willow memorial, with metal leaves inscribed with the names of those who perished during the war.

Additionally, a memorial honors Swedish diplomat Raoul Wallenberg, who played a pivotal role in saving hundreds of Hungarian Jews from concentration camps and ghettos.

14. Ecseri Flea Market

This vibrant flea market located on the city’s outskirts is an excellent destination for bargain hunters. You can uncover a variety of treasures here, though it may require sifting through stalls filled with items that might initially seem unremarkable.

Even if you do not plan to buy anything, the market provides an opportunity to wander amid the stalls and ponder the past owners of this eclectic assortment of artifacts. Vendors offer everything from retro clothing to memorabilia from the Communist era.

Haggling is encouraged, but expect to pay a bit more if you are not a local.

15. Ruin Pubs

Budapest is notable for its “ruin pubs,” where an effortlessly chic ambiance reigns. These unique establishments are often located in sprawling, abandoned buildings that have been furnished with a blend of comfortable and slightly worn furniture.

Each pub possesses its own distinct character, making it common for visitors to refer to their favorite venue as “the one with the…”. Popular ruin pubs encompass Instant (“the one with the wild animal images”), Fogas Ház (“the one with the teeth”), Kuplung (“the one with the whale”), and Szimpla Kert.

16. Central Market Hall

The Great Market Hall stands as Budapest’s most renowned marketplace.

Although many locals continue to frequent the market for their grocery needs, it is remarkably popular among tourists as well.

Locally grown fruits and vegetables, alongside locally sourced meats, can be found on the lower levels, while souvenirs such as lace, chess sets, and leather goods are available on the upper levels.

In addition to individual ingredients, visitors can also acquire homemade specialties like goulash and lángos from the food stalls on the upper floor.

17. Buda Castle Hill Funicular

This funicular, which commenced operations in 1870, is the second oldest of its kind worldwide. A system of weights and counterweights facilitates the ascent and descent of the carriages. The funicular represents the quickest means of reaching the summit of Castle Hill and is immensely popular for its panoramic vistas overlooking the Danube. (Additionally, you may reach there via this Segway tour.)

In 1988, the ascent speed was intentionally reduced to allow passengers to fully enjoy the scenic journey. The track operates daily until 10 PM, rendering it an excellent option for appreciating views of Pest after dark.

18. The Buda Hills

The Buda Hills are among the most verdant regions of the city, serving as a favored retreat for residents of Budapest seeking an escape from urban life.

A variety of hiking trails and mountain biking routes are available, catering to various levels of fitness.

For a more leisurely exploration, you may opt to visit the Children’s Railway, which is entirely operated by children aged 10-14, with adult staff present for safety supervision.

Numerous picnic spots are scattered throughout the area, providing an ideal setting for enjoying a packed lunch.

19. Andrássy Avenue

This splendid boulevard leads visitors from Erzsébet Square in central Pest to City Park. Due to its significant cultural heritage, it was designated a World Heritage Site in 2002.

Strolling along Andrássy Avenue allows you to admire various architectural styles present in Budapest, including the Hungarian National Opera House, neo-Renaissance townhouses, mansions, and several national embassies.

If a leisurely walk down the boulevard does not appeal to you, the metro line operating beneath the Avenue stands as the third oldest underground railway globally.

20. Liberty Statue

The Liberty Statue, perched on Gellért Hill, is one of the few prominent Communist statues that remained intact following Hungary’s transition to democracy, partially due to its iconic vantage point overlooking the city.

The monument was first established in 1947 to honor the Soviet troops who perished during the liberation of the country; however, its inscription was later modified to commemorate “all who sacrificed their lives for the independence, freedom, and prosperity of Hungary.”

The panoramic views from beneath the statue are unparalleled, making the climb to the hill’s summit worthwhile.

21. Citadella

The Citadel, located atop Gellért Hill, was erected by the Hapsburgs following the unsuccessful Hungarian War of Independence.

Its strategic location was believed to facilitate the monitoring of both Buda and Pest in the event of future insurrections.

Troops were stationed at the Citadel until 1897. Soviet forces later utilized the fortress for controlling the city during the 1956 Hungarian Revolution, with tanks positioned there firing upon the city.

The Citadel presently houses a restaurant, a hotel, and a museum.

22. Széchenyi Thermal Baths

The Széchenyi Baths complex is the largest medicinal bath center in Europe. The mineral-rich waters contain sulphates, calcium, magnesium, bicarbonate, and fluoride, which are believed to alleviate issues related to degenerative joint ailments and other health concerns.

For those seeking relaxation, the site offers various thermal pools, along with saunas and steam rooms.

Massage and beauty treatments are also available for an additional fee.

The two outdoor pools offer a superb experience during cold, dark evenings, as steam rises from the hot water, creating a captivating atmosphere.

23. City Park

City Park serves as a splendid recreational space for Budapest residents, offering sports facilities, swimming pools, and a boating lake.

In winter, the boating lake transforms into one of Europe’s largest ice rinks.

The park is also home to the Budapest Municipal Zoo and Botanical Gardens, the Budapest Circus, and the Vajdahunyad Castle (which houses the Museum of Hungarian Agriculture).

Adjacent to the park, you can find the Time Wheel, which ranks among the largest sand timers globally.

In this timepiece, the grains of glass take one year to descend from the top section to the bottom, and the timer is reset every New Year.

24. Hungarian National Museum

The Hungarian National Museum houses thousands of exhibits detailing the nation’s history, art, religion, and archaeology, including artifacts from areas now considered outside Hungary’s borders.

The museum itself, a stunning Neoclassical building, is equally remarkable to admire, even if you do not plan to explore its interior.

The tranquil gardens outside are a popular gathering place, especially during the summer months.

25. Aquincum Museum and Ruin Garden

Aquincum, an ancient Roman city that once occupied the area where Budapest stands today, offers an excellent opportunity to explore Hungary’s rich history, serving as a pivotal military base during the Roman Empire.

Visitors can roam through some of the ruins, including the remains of an ancient gladiatorial amphitheater and other key structures, such as the city bathhouse.

The museum exhibits various Roman relics, alongside a working replica of a renowned water organ discovered in the area in 1931.