Budapest Travel Guide

Introduction

Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is a city that beautifully merges history and modernity, situated along the banks of the Danube River. Formed in 1873 by the unification of Buda, Óbuda, and Pest, it boasts a rich cultural heritage reflected in its numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites, including Buda Castle and Andrássy Avenue. Known as the "City of Spas," Budapest is famous for its thermal baths, which are fed by over 100 natural hot springs. The city is also home to vibrant nightlife, particularly in its unique ruin bars, and offers various attractions such as the Hungarian Parliament Building and the Great Synagogue, the largest in Europe.

Interesting Facts about Budapest

• Budapest was formed in 1873 by merging three cities: Buda, Pest, and Óbuda.
• The Danube River divides Budapest into two distinct areas: hilly Buda and flat Pest.
• Budapest is known as the "City of Spas" due to its over 100 thermal springs supplying numerous bathhouses.
• The Millennium Underground in Budapest, opened in 1896, is the oldest electrified subway in continental Europe.
• The Dohány Street Synagogue is the largest synagogue in Europe and the second-largest in the world.
• The Széchenyi Thermal Bath is the largest medicinal bath in Europe, featuring 15 indoor and 3 outdoor pools.
• The iconic Széchenyi Chain Bridge was the first permanent bridge to connect Buda and Pest, completed in 1849.
• Budapest’s Parliament Building has 691 rooms and stands at a symbolic height of 96 metres.
• The city is home to unique ruin bars, which are vibrant pubs set up in abandoned buildings.
• Ernő Rubik, the inventor of the Rubik's Cube, was born in Budapest in 1944.
• Buda Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, houses the Hungarian National Gallery and offers stunning views of the city.
• Budapest hosts Sziget Festival, one of Europe’s largest music and cultural events, attracting over half a million visitors annually.
• The Fisherman’s Bastion provides breathtaking panoramic views of Budapest’s skyline and the Danube River.
• Heroes’ Square commemorates Hungary’s millennium with statues of historic leaders and an iconic central column.
• The Shoes on the Danube Bank memorial honours Holocaust victims with a poignant display of cast-iron shoes along the riverbank.

History

Budapest, the capital of Hungary, boasts a rich and diverse history spanning millennia. The city's roots can be traced back to Celtic settlements in the 4th century BC, which later transformed into the Roman town of Aquincum. The Romans established a thriving settlement, complete with roads, amphitheatres, and baths, capitalising on the area's abundant thermal springs. In the 9th century, Magyar tribes arrived in the region, laying the foundation for the Kingdom of Hungary.

The city's modern incarnation began to take shape in the Middle Ages, with Buda and Pest developing as separate entities on opposite banks of the Danube. Buda became the capital of the Kingdom of Hungary in 1361, ushering in a period of growth and prosperity. However, the region faced numerous challenges, including Mongol invasions and Ottoman rule, which lasted from 1541 to 1686. The Habsburg Empire then took control, initiating a new era of development and architectural splendour.

A pivotal moment in Budapest's history came in 1873 when Buda, Pest, and Óbuda were officially unified to create the singular city of Budapest. This unification sparked a golden age of rapid growth and modernisation, transforming Budapest into a thriving metropolis. The city saw the construction of iconic landmarks such as the Chain Bridge, the Parliament building, and the Millennium Underground Railway—the first metro line on the European continent. Despite the challenges posed by two World Wars and subsequent political upheavals, Budapest has persevered, emerging as a vibrant cultural and economic hub that seamlessly blends its storied past with a dynamic present.

Main Attractions

Buda Castle

Perched atop Castle Hill, Buda Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Budapest's most iconic landmarks. The castle complex, dating back to the 13th century, has been rebuilt and expanded over the centuries, reflecting various architectural styles. Today, it houses the Budapest History Museum and the Hungarian National Gallery.

The surrounding Castle District features cobblestone streets lined with colourful houses, artisan shops, and charming cafes, creating a medieval ambiance. Visitors can explore the district's winding alleys, discovering hidden courtyards and enjoying panoramic views of the city below.

Within the Castle District, two notable attractions stand out:

Matthias Church

This striking Gothic church, officially known as the Church of Our Lady, is a jewel of Budapest's skyline. Its colourful tiled roof and intricate stone carvings make it a visual masterpiece. The church has played a significant role in Hungarian history, serving as the coronation church for Hungarian kings. Its interior is equally impressive, featuring neo-Gothic decorations and stunning stained-glass windows.

Fisherman's Bastion

Adjacent to Matthias Church, the Fisherman's Bastion is a neo-Gothic and neo-Romanesque style terrace offering panoramic views of the Danube and Pest. Built between 1895 and 1902 to celebrate Hungary's 1000th birthday, its seven turrets symbolise the seven Magyar tribes that settled in the Carpathian Basin in 895. The name comes from the guild of fishermen who were responsible for defending this stretch of the city walls in the Middle Ages.

Hungarian Parliament Building

This Neo-Gothic masterpiece is arguably Budapest's most recognisable structure. Located along the Danube, the Hungarian Parliament Building is particularly stunning when illuminated at night. Completed in 1904, it's one of Europe's oldest legislative buildings and the largest building in Hungary.

The building's symmetrical façade and central dome are visible from many vantage points in the city. Guided tours are available to view the opulent interiors, including the Hungarian Crown Jewels and the Holy Crown of Hungary. The building's intricate details, both inside and out, showcase the finest craftsmanship of the late 19th century.

Chain Bridge

The Széchenyi Chain Bridge, to give it its full name, is the oldest bridge in Budapest, connecting Buda and Pest across the Danube. Inaugurated in 1849, it's an iconic symbol of the city, especially when lit up at night. The bridge was the first permanent stone-bridge connecting Pest and Buda, and was regarded as one of the modern world's engineering wonders at the time of its construction.

The bridge is adorned with lion statues at each end, which have become symbols of the city in their own right. Walking across the Chain Bridge offers stunning views of the Danube, the Parliament Building, and Buda Castle. It's particularly magical at sunset when the city lights begin to twinkle.

Thermal Baths

Budapest is renowned for its thermal baths, a legacy of both Roman and Turkish occupations. The city sits on a patchwork of almost 125 thermal springs, and 'taking the waters' has been a part of Budapest life since the time of the Romans.

Széchenyi Thermal Bath

The largest medicinal bath in Europe, Széchenyi Baths feature 18 pools, including three outdoor pools open year-round. The neo-baroque building houses indoor medicinal baths dating from 1913 and outdoor pools from 1927. Located in City Park, it's the most popular and recognizable of Budapest's baths.

The outdoor area is particularly impressive, with its bright yellow façade and steaming pools. The baths are fed by two thermal springs, with water temperatures ranging from 74 to 77°C. Visitors can enjoy various wellness services, including massages, saunas, and steam rooms.

Gellért Baths

Built in 1918, Gellért Baths showcase a well-preserved Art Nouveau interior with colourful mosaics, marble columns, and stained glass windows. The complex includes thermal baths, saunas, plunge pools, and an open-air swimming pool with artificial waves.

The main hall, with its gallery and glass roof, is particularly stunning. The baths offer a range of pools with different temperatures, as well as various wellness treatments. The outdoor wave pool, operational in summer, is a unique feature that adds to the bath's appeal.

Rudas Baths

Dating back to the Turkish period of the 16th century, Rudas Baths feature an octagonal pool under a 10-metre diameter cupola supported by eight pillars. This central pool is surrounded by four smaller pools of varying temperatures. The baths offer six therapy pools and one swimming pool with temperatures ranging from 16°C to 42°C.

Rudas Baths are known for their night bathing sessions on weekends, offering a unique experience of soaking in thermal waters under the stars. The rooftop pool, added in recent years, provides panoramic views of the Danube and the city.

St. Stephen's Basilica

This neoclassical church is one of the tallest buildings in Budapest and a prominent feature of the city's skyline. Named after Stephen, the first King of Hungary, the basilica took over 50 years to build and was completed in 1905.

The interior of the basilica is richly decorated with marble and gold leaf. One of its most sacred treasures is the mummified right hand of St. Stephen, known as the "Holy Right", displayed in a gold reliquary. Visitors can ascend to the dome for panoramic city views, offering a unique perspective of Budapest's layout.

Heroes' Square

Heroes' Square (Hősök tere) is an iconic plaza in Budapest, built in 1896 to commemorate the 1000th anniversary of the Magyar conquest of the Carpathian Basin. The square is dominated by the Millennium Monument, featuring statues of the Seven Chieftains of the Magyars and other important national leaders.

The central feature is a tall column topped by a statue of the Archangel Gabriel. On either side are two colonnades featuring statues of Hungarian kings and other historical figures. The square is flanked by two important buildings: the Museum of Fine Arts and the Palace of Art.

Heroes' Square is not just a historical monument but also a vibrant public space. It often hosts national events, celebrations, and occasional protests, serving as a focal point for both locals and tourists.

Andrássy Avenue

This grand boulevard, recognized as a World Heritage Site, stretches from the city centre to Heroes' Square. Completed in 1885, it's lined with spectacular neo-Renaissance mansions and townhouses featuring fine facades and interiors.

Andrássy Avenue is often compared to the Champs-Élysées in Paris due to its elegant appearance and the important cultural institutions located along it. These include the State Opera House, the Pest Broadway, and numerous cafes and restaurants. The avenue is also home to several luxury boutiques, making it a popular shopping destination.

Shoes on the Danube Bank

This poignant memorial, located on the Pest side of the Danube Promenade, consists of 60 pairs of iron shoes, honouring Jews who were killed during World War II. Created by film director Can Togay and sculptor Gyula Pauer, the memorial was installed in 2005.

The shoes are cast in iron and weathered to give them an aged appearance. They represent the shoes left behind by victims who were shot into the Danube by Arrow Cross militiamen between 1944 and 1945. This simple yet powerful memorial serves as a stark reminder of the atrocities of war and the importance of remembrance.

Várkert Bazaar

Located at the base of Buda Castle, the recently restored Várkert Bazaar (Castle Garden Bazaar) is a neo-Renaissance complex designed by Miklós Ybl in the 19th century. Originally intended to be a place of entertainment and relaxation for the royal court, it fell into disrepair but has been beautifully renovated in recent years.

Today, the Várkert Bazaar features beautiful gardens, exhibition spaces, and a modern visitor centre. Its terraced gardens offer stunning views of the Danube and Pest, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or to enjoy the sunset over the city.

Vajdahunyad Castle

Vajdahunyad Castle, a captivating architectural marvel nestled in Budapest's City Park, stands as a testament to Hungary's rich historical heritage. Originally constructed for the 1896 Millennial Exhibition, this enchanting complex seamlessly blends Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles, showcasing replicas of iconic buildings from various parts of the medieval Kingdom of Hungary. Initially built from cardboard and wood, its immense popularity led to its reconstruction in stone and brick between 1904 and 1908. Today, the castle houses the Hungarian Agricultural Museum and serves as a vibrant cultural hub, hosting numerous events and festivals throughout the year. Visitors can explore its diverse architectural elements, including the Gothic Hunyadi Tower, the Romanesque chapel, and the Renaissance palace, whilst enjoying the picturesque surroundings of the park and the adjacent boating lake. With its fairy-tale charm and historical significance, Vajdahunyad Castle remains an essential stop for travellers seeking to immerse themselves in Budapest's captivating past.

Great Synagogue

The Tabakgasse Synagogue, more commonly known as the Dohány Street Synagogue or the Great Synagogue, is a majestic architectural landmark in Budapest's Jewish Quarter. Constructed between 1854 and 1859, it is the largest synagogue in Europe and the second-largest globally, accommodating nearly 3,000 worshippers. Its striking Moorish Revival design, inspired by Islamic models, features two iconic onion-domed towers. The complex includes a Jewish museum, a cemetery, and a Holocaust memorial, making it a poignant reminder of the city's Jewish history. The synagogue has endured significant historical events, including bombings and Nazi occupation during World War II, but was beautifully restored between 1991 and 1998. Today, it serves as both a place of worship and a venue for cultural events, offering a unique blend of history, architecture, and cultural significance for visitors.

Top Museums

Art Museums

Museum of Fine Arts (Szépművészeti Múzeum)

Situated in Heroes' Square, this grand museum is a treasure trove of European art spanning from ancient times to the 20th century. The recently renovated Romanesque Hall is a particular highlight, showcasing breathtaking frescoes and architectural details.

Key collections include:

• Egyptian artefacts: One of Central Europe's most extensive collections, featuring mummies, sarcophagi, and intricate jewellery.
• Classical Antiquities: Greek and Roman sculptures, ceramics, and bronzes.
• Old Master paintings: Works by Raphael, El Greco, Velázquez, and Goya.
• Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art: Pieces by Monet, Manet, and Cézanne.

The museum's sculpture collection on the 2nd floor is particularly noteworthy, displaying around 600 statues and statuettes by European sculptors from the Middle Ages to the late 19th century. The collection includes works by Rodin and a significant assembly of Spanish polychrome wooden sculptures.

Hungarian National Gallery (Magyar Nemzeti Galéria)

Housed in the majestic Buda Castle, this gallery is dedicated to Hungarian art from the Middle Ages to the present day. The permanent exhibition is arranged chronologically, allowing visitors to trace the development of Hungarian art through the centuries.

Highlights include:

• Medieval and Renaissance stone carvings
• Gothic winged altarpieces
• 19th-century Romantic paintings by Mihály Munkácsy
• Works by Hungary's Impressionists and avant-garde artists

The gallery also offers stunning panoramic views of Pest from its upper floors and dome.

Ludwig Museum of Contemporary Art

Located in the modern Palace of Arts complex, this museum focuses on contemporary and modern art from the 1960s onwards. It's particularly known for its collection of American Pop Art, including works by Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein.

The museum also emphasises Eastern European art, offering visitors a unique perspective on the region's artistic development during and after the Cold War. Rotating exhibitions ensure there's always something new to discover.

Vasarely Museum

Dedicated to the works of Victor Vasarely, the father of Op Art, this museum showcases the artist's mind-bending geometric abstractions. The collection includes both paintings and three-dimensional works, demonstrating Vasarely's exploration of visual perception and illusion.

Robert Capa Contemporary Photography Center

This centre honours the legacy of Hungarian-American war photographer Robert Capa. It hosts rotating exhibitions of both historical and contemporary photography, making it a must-visit for photography enthusiasts.

History Museums

Hungarian National Museum (Magyar Nemzeti Múzeum)

Housed in a stunning neoclassical building, this museum offers a comprehensive overview of Hungarian history from prehistoric times to the fall of communism. The museum played a pivotal role in the 1848 Hungarian Revolution, with poet Sándor Petőfi reciting his famous "National Song" on its steps.

Key exhibits include:

• The Holy Crown of Hungary and coronation jewels
• Roman artefacts from Pannonia
• Medieval and early modern weapons and armour
• Documents and artefacts from the 1956 Hungarian Revolution

The museum's gardens are also worth exploring, featuring statues of prominent Hungarian historical figures.

Budapest History Museum (Budapesti Történeti Múzeum)

Located in the southern wing of Buda Castle, this museum chronicles the city's evolution from its Roman origins as Aquincum to the vibrant metropolis it is today. The museum is divided into several sections:

• Castle Museum: Explores the history of the Royal Palace and Buda Castle district.
• Medieval Budapest: Features Gothic statues, medieval weapons, and reconstructed palace rooms.
• Budapest in Modern Times: Covers the city's development from the 18th century onwards.

Visitors can also explore underground halls showcasing the original medieval and Renaissance palace structures.

Holocaust Memorial Center (Holokauszt Emlékközpont)

This powerful and moving museum is housed in a restored synagogue on Páva Street. It offers a comprehensive look at the history of anti-Semitism in Hungary, the events of the Holocaust, and its aftermath.

The exhibition includes:

• Personal artefacts and testimonies from Holocaust survivors
• A memorial wall listing the names of Hungarian Holocaust victims
• A restored synagogue that serves as a space for reflection

The centre also houses a research library and regularly hosts educational programmes and temporary exhibitions.

House of Terror (Terror Háza)

This museum, located in the former headquarters of the secret police, commemorates the victims of Hungary's fascist and communist regimes. The building itself played a sinister role in the country's 20th-century history, housing detention cells in its basement.

Exhibits cover topics such as:

• Hungary during World War II
• The 1956 Hungarian Revolution
• Life under communist rule
• The fall of communism and transition to democracy

The museum's design is highly atmospheric, with multimedia installations creating an immersive and often chilling experience.

Speciality Museums

Museum of Applied Arts (Iparművészeti Múzeum)

This museum is a work of art in itself, housed in a stunning Art Nouveau building designed by Ödön Lechner, often called the "Hungarian Gaudí". The museum's collection focuses on decorative arts, including:

• Hungarian Art Nouveau furniture and objects
• Oriental carpets and textiles
• Ceramics and glassware from various periods
• Historical fashion and accessories

The building's intricate tilework, both inside and out, is a particular highlight.

Museum of Ethnography (Néprajzi Múzeum)

Recently relocated to a striking new building in City Park, this museum offers insights into traditional Hungarian folk culture and that of other European and non-European peoples. Exhibits include:

• Traditional costumes and textiles
• Folk art and crafts
• Agricultural tools and household objects
• Recreated interiors of traditional Hungarian homes

The museum's new home features an innovative "floating" design and a publicly accessible roof garden.

House of Music Hungary (Magyar Zene Háza)

This cutting-edge museum opened in 2022 and offers an interactive journey through the world of music. Designed by Japanese architect Sou Fujimoto, the building itself is a marvel of modern architecture.

Features include:

• Sound Dome: An immersive space where visitors can experience 360-degree sound
• Interactive exhibits on the history and science of music
• A space for live performances and workshops

The museum is particularly engaging for families and music enthusiasts of all ages.

Hungarian Natural History Museum (Magyar Természettudományi Múzeum)

This family-friendly museum offers a fascinating look at the natural world. Highlights include:

• A life-sized model of a fin whale
• Dinosaur skeletons and fossils
• An extensive mineral and rock collection
• Interactive exhibits on ecology and evolution

The museum also features a beautiful botanical garden, perfect for a peaceful stroll after exploring the exhibits.

Semmelweis Medical History Museum

Named after Ignaz Semmelweis, the Hungarian physician known as the "saviour of mothers", this unique museum explores the history of medicine. Located in the house where Semmelweis was born, it features:

• Historical medical instruments and equipment
• Pharmaceutical history exhibits
• Wax anatomical models
• A recreation of a 19th-century doctor's office

Military History

Museum of Military History (Hadtörténeti Múzeum)

Located in a former military barracks in the Castle District, this museum covers Hungarian military history from the Middle Ages to the present day. The collection includes:

• Weapons and armour from various periods
• Military uniforms and insignia
• Battle flags and maps
• Medals and decorations

One of the most poignant exhibits is the collection of items from the 1956 Hungarian Revolution, including bullet-riddled flags and personal belongings of freedom fighters.

Hospital in the Rock Nuclear Bunker Museum (Sziklakórház Atombunker Múzeum)

This fascinating museum is set in a former secret emergency hospital and nuclear bunker beneath Buda Castle. Visitors can explore:

• Original medical equipment from the 1940s-1960s
• Cold War-era civil defence installations
• Wax figures depicting medical staff and patients
• A section on nuclear weapons and their effects

Guided tours provide insights into the facility's use during World War II, the 1956 Revolution, and its maintained readiness throughout the Cold War.

Museum of Hungarian Agriculture

Located in the picturesque Vajdahunyad Castle within City Park, the Museum of Hungarian Agriculture is a must-visit for those interested in the history of Hungarian farming. Established in 1896, it is one of the largest agricultural museums in Europe, housing over 400,000 artefacts and nearly half a million volumes in its specialist library.

The museum offers a comprehensive look at Hungarian agriculture from the Neolithic period to the early days of mechanisation. Visitors can explore exhibits showcasing historic agricultural tools and practices, as well as a fascinating display on Hungarian wine in the castle's basement.

Local Cuisine

Budapest's culinary scene offers a delightful array of hearty and flavourful dishes that reflect Hungary's rich cultural heritage. Visitors should not miss the chance to savour gulyás, a robust beef soup seasoned with paprika, or the crispy lángos, a deep-fried flatbread often topped with sour cream and cheese. For a taste of Hungarian comfort food, try chicken paprikash, a creamy stew served with dumplings, or töltött káposzta, stuffed cabbage rolls. Fish lovers will appreciate halászlé, a spicy fish soup, while those with a sweet tooth can indulge in kürtőskalács, a chimney-shaped pastry, or somlói galuska, a decadent trifle-like dessert. To round off your culinary adventure, sample some traditional Hungarian sausages, known as kolbász, which come in various spicy and mild varieties.

Shopping

The city's main shopping areas include Váci Street, a bustling pedestrian thoroughfare lined with international brands and souvenir shops, and Fashion Street, home to high-end designer boutiques. For luxury shopping, Andrássy Avenue features exclusive brands like Gucci and Louis Vuitton. Those seeking vintage finds and antiques should visit the Ecseri Flea Market on the outskirts of the city. Budapest also houses several modern shopping centres, such as WestEnd City Center and Arena Mall, offering a mix of retail, dining, and entertainment options. For local produce and traditional Hungarian goods, the historic Central Market Hall is a must-visit destination.

Nature in and around Budapest

Budapest and its surroundings offer a wealth of natural attractions for visitors to explore. The city itself boasts several green spaces, including the expansive City Park (Városliget) with its lake and botanical gardens, and the tranquil Margaret Island (Margitsziget) in the Danube River. For those seeking panoramic views, Gellért Hill provides stunning vistas of the city and the river. Just outside Budapest, the Buda Hills offer excellent hiking trails and outdoor activities, with the Normafa area being particularly popular for its meadows and lookout points. Nature enthusiasts can explore the Óbuda Island (Óbudai-sziget), a designated nature reserve home to diverse flora and fauna. For a unique underground experience, the Pálvölgyi Cave in the Buda Hills offers guided tours of its intricate cave system. Further afield, the Hortobágy National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcases Hungary's traditional Puszta landscape and rich wildlife.

Getting There & Around

Getting to Budapest is straightforward, with several options available for travellers. The city's main international airport, Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport, serves numerous airlines and destinations worldwide. From the airport, you can take the 100E airport shuttle bus, which requires a special ticket, directly to the city centre. Alternatively, Budapest is well-connected by rail, with international trains arriving at the main railway stations, including Budapest-Keleti. If you're travelling by car, the city is accessible via major motorways from neighbouring countries. Once in Budapest, you'll find an efficient and diverse public transport network, including buses, trams, trolleybuses, and four metro lines, making it easy to explore the city's attractions.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Budapest is during the late spring and early autumn, specifically April, May, September, and October. These periods offer pleasant weather, with temperatures neither too hot nor too cold, making them ideal for sightseeing. Additionally, the city is less crowded compared to the peak summer months, which means lower prices for accommodation and a more relaxed atmosphere. Spring brings the city to life with blooming flowers and cultural events, while autumn provides a picturesque backdrop with its changing foliage. If you prefer warmer weather and are prepared for crowds, summer is also a great time to visit, with numerous outdoor festivals and events. However, if you are on a budget and do not mind the cold, visiting during the winter months can be a cost-effective option, with fewer tourists and lower prices.