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Parliament Building

Buda Castle

Fisherman's Bastion

St. Stephen's Basilica

Shoes on the Danube Bank

Central Market Hall

Heroes' Square

Matthias Church

Széchenyi Chain Bridge

Great Synagogue

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Map of Budapest — Best attractions, restaurants, and transportation info

What’s on this map.

We’ve made the ultimate tourist map of Budapest, Hungary for travelers! Check out Budapest’s top things to do, attractions, restaurants, and major transportation hubs all in one interactive map.

Visiting Budapest? See our Budapest Trip Planner.

How to use the map

Use this interactive map to plan your trip before and while in Budapest. Learn about each place by clicking it on the map or read more in the article below. Here’s more ways to perfect your trip using our Budapest map:

• Explore the best restaurants, shopping, and things to do in Budapest by categories
• Get directions in Google Maps to each place
• Export all places to save to your Google Maps
• Plan your travels by turning on metro and bus lines
• Create a Wanderlog trip plan (link to create a trip plan for the city) that keep all the places on the map in your phone
• Print a physical map to bring it on your trip

Top 20 attractions in Budapest

Fisherman's bastion, st. stephen's basilica.

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Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Matthias Church

Hungarian parliament building, heroes' square.

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Széchenyi Chain Bridge

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Budapest History Museum / Castle Museum

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• M1/E60 Motorway
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• Körút (Grand Boulevard)
• Andrássy Avenue
• Rákóczi Avenue
• Budaörsi Street.

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Get inspired for your trip to Budapest with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

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Budapest Map

Places of interest detailed in our guide, budapest maps and guides.

If you are planning your trip to Budapest, on the interactive map on this page you can find all the places of interest that we recommend you visit and other useful points of interest for your trip, such as the airport , or locations around Budapest . Simply click on the placeholders on the map, or in the list just below, to go to the in-depth tabs on the individual point of interest.

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However, if you are used to organising your itineraries with a traditional paper guide, buy one of the following.

Tourist map of Budapest

The Hungarian Tourist Board has made the city map available in PDF format, you can download it below.

Budapest Metro Map

If you will be using the Budapest Metro to get around during your stay in Budapest, take a look at the map of the lines to better plan your trip; to view it, download it in PDF format and possibly print it, click on the button below.

Where Budapest is located

The city is divided into two towards the North-South direction by the  Danube  river, which represents a central asset for the city trade. On the left side of the river there is the  Buda district, characterized by its 20 hills and its Castle. On the right bank of the river there is  Pest , which is characterized by the majestic Parliament building. Buda is a residential district, while Pest is rich in commercial and industrial areas.

Budapest holds the primacy of being the only world’s capital with  natural thermal springs . With more than 120 springs, there are about 70 million liters of water flowing everyday providing healing effects. The water may reach up to 58 Celsius degrees.

There are 3  islands on the Danube  belonging to the administrative area of the Hungarian capital city: Margaret Island, Csepel Island, and Obudai Island.

How to save on transport and entrance fees

City Card allow you to save on public transport and / or on the entrances to the main tourist attractions.

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Budapest Tourist Attractions Map PDF

Printable Map of Budapest Attractions, Walking Tours Map

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Top 5 Must-See Activities in Budapest

These are the most famous Budapest tourist attractions & sight tours which sees thousands and millions of visitors each year:

Budapest Parliament Tours

Budapest Danube River Cruise Tours

Széchenyi Bath Tickets

Gellert Bath Tickets

Budapest Card

Budapest Tourist Attractions Maps | City Tours Map

Budapest is no doubt one of the most fascinating cities in Eastern Europe. The city is surrounded with buildings in Neoclassical and Baroque architecture and several exciting historical and cultural sites. If youre visiting Budapest, go check out our Budapest tour map. This map will take you to explore the citys most famous attractions and landmark.

In an effort to help travelers in easily finding their way in Budapest, we have provided different kinds of Budapest city sightseeing maps. If youre the kind of traveler who would prefer to use your device in navigating the city, the Budapest interactive map is a great map to download. But if you prefer an old school way of carrying an actual physical map as you tour the city, then check out our printable map of Budapest.

Taking the Budapest metro is an economical way of exploring the city. Its very convenient and easy to use, especially if you grab yourself a copy of our Budapest metro map with attractions. The map details the various stations that the train would stop, including the Budapests famous attractions such as the Buda Castle, Hungarian Parliament Building, Fishermans Bastion, Matthias Church, and more!

If you find it a challenge to navigate Budapest on your own, why dont you take the hop on hop off bus? You can refer to our Budapest hop on hop off bus map for information on where this bus would stop. If you prefer to discover the city through walking, then you can benefit from our Budapest tourist map walking. The map will help you find your way into the citys maze of streets.

Regardless of how you plan to see Budapest, the tourist information Budapest will definitely be a great help. At Tripindicator, our aim is to help tourists in easily exploring Budapest and this is why we have provided free copies of the map of Budapest. We have different types of maps available for you to use. You can print a copy of the Budapest tourist map pdf or save it on your phone. Otherwise, go check out our printable tourist map Budapest, which is a printable version of the city map.

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22 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Budapest

Written by Joni Sweet and Bryan Dearsley Updated Dec 28, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is considered by many to be the "Paris of the East." Not only is this beautiful city one of the most culturally important metropolises in Eastern Europe, it's also home to numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites .

Straddling the River Danube , Budapest is famous for its thermal springs , some of which have been used for therapeutic purposes since prehistory. In fact, Budapest has so many things to do that you'll want to spend at least a few days exploring this dynamic city. Popular attractions range from impressive architecture and poignant reminders of 20th-century history to its vibrant cultural and entertainment scene, with everything from street buskers to classical concerts in beautiful churches.

Budapest is also a shopper's paradise , from the traditional wares and foodstuffs available at the grand old Central Market Hall to Vaci Street, noted for its mix of luxury boutique stores and big brand names.

Whatever your sightseeing preferences, get the most out of your Hungary travel itinerary with our guide to the top tourist attractions in Budapest, Hungary.

1. Buda Castle & Castle Hill

2. hungarian parliament building & crown jewels, 3. st. stephen's basilica, 4. fisherman's bastion, 5. the danube promenade, 6. matthias church (church of our lady), 7. exploring gellért hill, 8. central market hall, 9. the museum of fine arts, 10. heroes' square and the millennium monument, 11. széchenyi thermal bath, 12. hungarian state opera house, 13. budapest zoo & botanical garden, 14. hospital in the rock nuclear bunker museum, 15. the university church, 16. hungarian national museum, 17. city park (városliget), 18. margaret island, 19. gellért spa, 20. labyrinth of buda castle, 21. ferris wheel of budapest, 22. the garden of philosophers, where to stay in budapest for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to budapest, map of tourist attractions in budapest, budapest, hungary - climate chart, more must-see destinations near budapest.

Towering over the Danube, Budapest's Castle Hill (Várhegy) contains many of the city's most important medieval monuments and museums. Topping the list of these impressive structures is the 18th-century Buda Castle (Budavári Palota), a massive 200-room palace that replaced a 13th-century castle built to protect the stronghold from Mongol and Tartar attacks.

Although badly damaged in World War II, much of the exterior has been restored, along with sections of the interior, which now houses a number of important museums. These include the Hungarian National Gallery in the main wing, while in the south wing, the Budapest History Museum occupies four floors.

In front of the castle, overlooking the Danube, stands a bronze equestrian statue of Prince Eugene of Savoy, a hero of Turkish attacks on the city. Castle Hill is worth exploring for its medieval lanes and it Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque architecture. This entire historic complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

Like much of the city, Buda Castle is spectacularly illuminated at night, and the castle courtyards remain open 24 hours a day. You can reach the castle on the restored historic Castle Funicular Railway , which departs from the Buda end of the Chain Bridge.

Address: 1014 Budapest, Szent György tér 2

A highlight of a walk around Budapest's lovely pedestrian-friendly cobbled streets is the area around the country's architecturally pleasing Parliament building (Országház). Along with its neighbors, the Museum of Ethnography and the Ministry of Agriculture, it's perhaps one of the city's most attractive quarters architecturally.

The world's third largest parliament building, this Neo-Gothic building was inaugurated in 1886 to mark the country's 1,000th anniversary. (Hungary was then part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire.) This impressive structure boasts 691 rooms, as well as an impressive 19 kilometers of corridors and stairs.

Guided tours last approximately 45 minutes and are available whenever the government is not sitting, and include many of the building's highlights, such as the main entrance hall, various lobbies, and the Hungarian Crown Jewels. Most tickets sell out a week in advance, so make your reservations as early as possible.

Address: 1055 Budapest, Kossuth Lajos tér 1-3

Official site: http://hungarianparliament.com/tours/

Budapest's St. Stephen's Basilica (Szent István-bazilika) is a popular attraction for its impressive architecture, the beauty of its interior, and the panoramic views from its dome. The cathedral is dedicated to St. Stephen, Hungary's holy king and the founder of the Hungarian state, and construction began in 1851, but after several construction setbacks—including the collapse of its unfinished dome—it was not dedicated until 1905.

The roof, towers, and external walls were badly damaged in World War II, and the church's precious mosaics fell from the walls. However, these were successfully restored to their original place and are the highlight of the richly decorated interior. The most impressive of these, the five-part Venetian mosaic is in the sanctuary and represents the allegories of the mass.

The cathedral's most precious holy relic, the mummified right hand of the church's patron saint, the first king of Hungary, is displayed under glass in the chapel to the left of the high altar.

One of the best things to do here, if time permits, is to take one of the two elevators that carry visitors up to the cupola for sweeping 360-degree views over the city and the Danube (alternatively, you can climb the 364 steps). Guided tours of the basilica are available on weekdays. Also, be sure to check the cathedral's website for details of one of its frequent organ and classical music concerts .

Address: 1051 Budapest, Szent István tér

Official site: http://en.bazilika.biz/

Overlooking the Danube, on the spot where the city's fishermen's guild built their defence walls in the Middle Ages, stands the impressive Fisherman's Bastion (Halászbástya). This exquisite collection of Neo-Romanesque towers, courtyards, colonnades, and walls was built between 1895 and 1902, and is one of the most popular points in the city for tourists, largely for its spectacular views over the city and the Danube.

While here, be sure to look for the bronze equestrian statue of St. Stephen, the first King of Hungary, in the south courtyard. The reliefs on the sides of the base depict scenes from Stephen's life, and make for an incredible selfie backdrop.

For more great photo ops , head to the upper towers or turrets. There's a small entry fee, but it helps reduce crowding on that part of the attraction.

Address: Szentháromság tér 5, Budapest

Official site: www.fishermansbastion.com

The Danube (or "Duna" in Hungarian) flows through Budapest from north to south, and in some places within city boundaries is as much as 640 meters wide. One of the top free things to do in Budapest is strolling along the Danube Promenade (Dunakorzó), a pleasant century-old riverside walk that extends between the Elisabeth and Széchenyi Chain Bridges.

Although there are many places from which to enjoy views of the majestic river as you stroll its banks (either the Buda or Pest sides, they're both good), the Danube Promenade is definitely one of the best vantage points to take in views of the city's stunning architecture.

It's also on the banks of the Danube (the northeast side, close to the Hungarian Parliament buildings) that you'll find the chilling Shoes on the Danube Bank memorial. It consists of a series of 60 pairs of steel sculpted shoes memorializing Jews shot here by the Nazis, and is a poignant and moving reminder of the Nazi atrocities suffered by Hungary in World War II.

Another great way to view the city is via a boat cruise along the Danube . Numerous tourist excursions depart regularly from the landing stages at Vigadó tér on the Pest bank and Bem József tér on the Buda bank, and are highly recommended. It's also fun watching these sturdy vessels from the historic Freedom Bridge as they whip down river only to have to struggle back against the current.

Alternatively, you could enjoy incredible views on a budget by taking a ride on the number 2 tram . Skirting the eastern bank of the Danube, it's considered to be one of the most beautiful tram lines in the world .

Matthias Church, also known as The Church of Our Lady (Nagyboldogasszony-templom), is a prominent landmark on Castle Hill. It was completed in 1269, and its magnificent south doorway with its relief depicting the Death of Mary was added in the 1300s.

During the Turkish occupation of 1541-1699, the church was used as a mosque, and was later renovated in the Baroque style. It has been the scene of several historic events, including the coronation of King Charles I of Hungary in 1309 and the coronation of Emperor Franz Joseph I of Austria and his consort Elisabeth (Sissy) as rulers of Hungary. It was for this event that Franz Liszt composed his coronation mass.

The free organ concerts held here on some Sunday evenings are well worth attending (check the website for specific dates).

Also worth checking out, the Ecclesiastical Art Museum is located on the church's medieval crypt and features a collection of sacred relics, stone carvings, and replicas of the Hungarian crown jewels.

Address: Szentháromság tér 2, Budapest

Official site: https://matyas-templom.hu/home

Another of Budapest's most striking features is the panoramic Gellért Hill (Gellért-hegy), a 235-meter block of dolomite that falls steeply down to the Danube. It's here along the hill's geological fault line that several of the city's most famous medicinal springs emerge to supply the Gellért Spa and Rudas Baths , which have lured visitors from far and wide since the 13th century.

The Rudas Baths are one of a handful of buildings remaining from the Turkish occupation, and are among the few original Turkish bathhouses in the world still in use that date back to the 1600s.

On the hill's northeast slope is the Gellért Monument , a tribute to Hungary's beloved famous saint, a Benedictine monk who died in 1046 and after whom the hill is named. Perched high above a man-made waterfall, it offers magnificent views over the city. The Citadel on the summit was built by the Austrians in 1851, and the Liberation Monument was erected in 1947 in memory of the Soviet soldiers who died fighting in WWII.

Finally, if you have energy left, take a stroll around Jubilee Park . Laid out to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the October Revolution, it's home to many charming walkways, beautiful flowerbeds, and sculptures.

Located just across the Freedom Bridge from the Gellért Spa is Budapest's Central Market Hall (Nagyvásárcsarnok), also known as the Great Market Hall. You can't miss it for its central location and its roof of colorful Zsolnay tiles from the town of Pécs.

Built in 1897 and the largest and oldest of Budapest's many markets, it's as interesting to view from the inside as it is on the outside – particularly if you enjoy people watching. As cavernous as any major rail terminal in Europe, this popular indoor marketplace encompasses an area of over 10,000 square meters and is as popular with the locals as it is with tourists, here for the abundance of fresh produce, food stuffs, and other goods being traded across its many levels.

Feeling peckish? Grab a bite to eat from one of the vendors on the second mezzanine level, or a pastry and coffee on the go as you continue to explore. There, you can try typical Hungarian street food, like lángos, a delicious deep-fried dough smothered in sour cream, cheese, and your choice of veggie and meat toppings.

While Saturdays are naturally the busiest days at the market (it's closed on Sundays), you can avoid the larger crowds with a weekday visit. If you're an early riser, get here for early morning; it opens at 6am, when it's fun watching the vendors setting up and prepping their produce for sale.

Address: Budapest, Vámház krt. 1-3, 1093 Hungary

Official site: https://piaconline.hu/en/central-market-hall/

The Museum of Fine Arts (Szépmuvészeti Múzeum) is not only Budapest's most important art gallery, it houses one of the largest collections of works by the Old Masters to be found in Europe.

The extensive array of Italian, Spanish, and Dutch paintings are on display in a spectacular, classically influenced 19th century building with long rooms for the larger paintings, cabinets for smaller and more intimate items, together with architecturally interesting space such as the Renaissance Hall.

Established in 1870 after Hungary inherited a fine collection of paintings, drawings, and prints, the museum is divided into six excellent departments: Egyptian Art, Ancient Art, the Old Sculpture Gallery, the Old Painter Gallery, the Modern Collection, and the Graphics Collection.

The adjacent Palace of Art is the city's leading contemporary art museum and hosts many temporary exhibits, so be sure to check for current offerings. (Note that this is not to be confused with the Palace of Arts, a high-tech arts center that houses the Ludwig Museum , a contemporary art collection with works by Picasso, David Hockney and numerous Hungarian Masters.)

Address: 1146 Budapest, Dózsa György út 41

Official site: www.szepmuveszeti.hu/main

The impressive Heroes' Square (Hosök tere) was largely the work of architect Albert Schickedanz, who was also responsible for the huge Museum of Fine Arts that flanks this large open space.

Highlights include the Millennium Monument, a 36-meter column crowned by a figure of the Archangel Gabriel and unveiled in the late 19th century. Around the plinth can be seen a group of bronze horsemen representing the conquering Magyar Prince Árpád and six of his fellow warriors.

On either side of the column, colonnades extend in a semi-circle, and between the individual pillars stand statues of Hungarian rulers. Above the corner pillars are beautiful works in bronze by Zala.

In front of the Millennium Monument stands a memorial to the Unknown Soldier. It's an especially nice place to visit at night when illuminated.

Address: Budapest, Hosök tere, 1146

Budapest is well-known worldwide for its incredible thermal springs, many of which have been harnessed to provide citizens, as well as visiting tourists, the opportunity to relax and rejuvenate in thermal baths.

Of the many such attractions Budapest, the best known is Széchenyi Thermal Bath (Széchenyi gyógyfürdo). Established in 1913, it's supplied by two thermal springs; it's also the biggest such facility in Europe, capable of handling thousands of bathers at a time in its three outdoor pools (including an adventure pool that's great for families) and 15 indoor pools.

In addition to its pools, guests can enjoy its saunas and steam rooms, as well as spa services including massages. For a special treat, pay a visit to the baths after nightfall. Day tickets, which include use of a locker, can be purchased online, or upon arrival. Don't forget to bring your bathing suit, a towel, and flip-flops!

Address: Budapest, Állatkerti krt. 9-11, 1146

Official site: www.szechenyibath.hu

As impressive inside as it is on the outside, the Hungarian State Opera House (Magyar Állami Operaház) is a must-see when in Budapest. The building's dimensions alone are impressive, and since it opened in 1884, it has commanded top spot on the city's cultural events calendar.

As delightful as its many performances (more on that in a minute) is the sumptuous interior of the building. Festooned with wonderful artwork and sculptures from the country's most significant artists, the Opera House can seat up to 1,300 people in its horseshoe-shaped (and acoustically pleasing) auditorium.

The Hungarian State Opera House is home to the Budapest Philharmonic Orchestra and the Hungarian National Ballet , and you'd certainly find attending a performance a crowning moment in your Budapest travel itinerary. The orchestra's season typically runs from September to June, and tickets can be purchased online. Daily guided English-language tours are also available.

Address: Budapest, Andrássy út 22, 1061

Official site: www.opera.hu/?lan=en

Said to be one of the world's oldest still-operating zoos , Budapest Zoo & Botanical Garden (Fovárosi Állat- és Növénykert) is one of the top things for families to do when visiting the city. Established over 150 years ago, the park is home to over 1,070 different species of animals, and has the rare distinction of being located in the heart of its host city, just around the corner from the Museum of Fine Arts.

In addition to its well-preserved Art Nouveau animal homes , this top-notch zoo park features a nature reserve, themed animal enclosures, and a variety of kid-friendly programming including feeding opportunities. If you're not in a big hurry to leave, hang around for one of the regular evening concerts.

Address: Budapest, Állatkerti krt. 6-12, 1146

Official site: https://zoobudapest.com/en

Underneath Castle Hill, the rock is a maze of caves and passageways that have been used for various purposes since prehistoric times. In World War II, some were fortified as an air raid shelter and emergency hospital. Now known as the Hospital in the Rock Nuclear Bunker Museum (Sziklakórház Atombunker Múzeum), this site was, at the time of the Cold War, further secured against nuclear contamination.

This former hospital and bunker is well worth exploring and features a variety of exhibitions on the kind of lifesaving efforts seen here during the Siege of Budapest in World War II. Another exhibit explores the devastating consequences of nuclear weapons. Admission is via guided tours only (English language tours available).

Address: Lovas 4/c, Budapest

Official site: www.sziklakorhaz.eu/en

Budapest's University Church (Kisboldogasszony-templom) is widely regarded as the most beautiful Baroque church in the city. Although somewhat hidden—it stands in the south of Pest away from the main shopping streets—its main front faces onto a narrow side street, which scarcely does it justice.

Built between 1725-42 (the two mighty towers were not completed until 1771), the principal façade incorporates a triangular tympanum with representations of St. Paul and St. Anthony, as well as the arms of the Pauline Order (a palm between two lions and a raven).

The church has a single nave with pilasters and enclosed side-chapels, and its walls are clad in artificial marble. Highlights include the frescoes on the barrel-vaulted ceilings depicting scenes from the life of Mary (1776), the choir-stalls, and the sculptures of St. Paul and St. Anthony on the High Altar (1746). Also of note is the Pauline Monastery near the church.

Address: Budapest, Papnövelde u. 8, 1053

Although founded in 1802, the superb Hungarian National Museum (Magyar Nemzeti Múzeum) didn't move into its current home, a large classical building surrounding two courtyards, until 1847. In addition to its massive portico, a monument to the famous Hungarian poet János Arany impresses, as does its park-like gardens with their numerous busts of famous people.

Major exhibits comprise the Royal Regalia , including the magnificent Crown of St. Stephen with its precious stones and pearls, as well as Hungary's pre- and early history from the Stone Age through to Roman times and the early Middle Ages.

Also of interest are the exhibits and artifacts dealing with the country's many struggles for independence, as well as historic Hungarian and Turkish weapons.

For music buffs, Beethoven's grand piano, which later belonged to Franz Liszt, can be seen here.

Address: 1088 Budapest, Múzeum körút 14-16

With its pretty lake, the 302-acre heavily wooded City Park (Városliget) is a popular recreational site for both Budapest locals and visitors. Laid out in the 19th century, the park has had many additions over the years.

Sightseeing highlights include the Museum of Fine Arts and the Palace of Art; the Municipal Zoological and Botanical Garden ; the excellent Transport Museum of Budapest ; Tivoli Pleasure Park , with its kids' rides and arcades; and the massive open-air Széchenyi Medicinal Bath .

Also worth seeing are the fairy-tale Vajdahunyad Castle and the 100,000-seat People's Stadium.

Margaret Island (Margitsziget), barely 2.4 kilometers long and 503 meters wide, is Budapest's main recreation and recuperative center for locals. Thermal spring-fed medicinal baths, carefully tended gardens and paths, as well as the ruins of many historic buildings also serve to attract many tourists, too.

A highlight of any visit is the Palatinus Baths , a huge spa complex that covers more than 17 acres and includes a bath with artificial waves, together with various medicinal, swimming, and children's pools capable of accommodating up to 20,000 bathers at a time.

Other island highlights are the pretty Rose Garden (Rózsakert); the Union Monument , a metal sculpture by István Kiss (1972) in the form of a flower; ruins of the Dominican convent, once home to Princess Margaret, the daughter of King Béla IV; the 51-meter water-tower, built in 1911, with its excellent viewing platform; and a large open-air theater.

Other things to do here include bike rentals or enjoying a meal at one of the many restaurants. If visiting at night, be sure to head to the Margaret Island Musical Fountain for its illuminations.

Gellért Spa is another famous thermal bath in Budapest. The Art Nouveau bath palace has welcomed bathers to take to its medicinal waters, fed from deep underground springs, since 1918 (check out the vintage photos on display!).

Inside you can soak your muscles in five thermal baths, get a refreshing chill in two plunge pools, and take a few laps in the stunning swimming pool, flanked by tropical plants and columns. The spa also boasts lovely outdoor facilities, including a wave pool and thermal sitting pool.

Address: Budapest, Kelenhegyi út 4, 1118

Official site: http://gellertspa.com/

If you're looking for a unique thing to do in Budapest , check out the Labyrinth of Buda Castle.

Located in natural caves beneath Castle Hill , the underground attraction allows you to visit the dank chambers where the man now known as "Dracula" was imprisoned for many years during the 15th century.

You can also see a series of statues of historical Hungarian figures, and try your best to navigate the Maze of Darkness in pitch blackness. Whatever you do, don't let go of the garden hose flanking the wall – it's the key to finding your way around the maze.

Address: Budapest, Úri u. 9, 1014

For the best views of the entire city, take a ride on the Ferris Wheel of Budapest in Erzsébet Square . Its 65-meter height allows you to get amazing vantage points of Buda Castle , St. Stephen's Basilica , and the Hungarian Parliament Building from any of the 42 partially open cabins.

You're guaranteed to take at least three full turns on the wheel for a ride that lasts up to 10 minutes.

Hot tip: Sunset is the best time to ride the Ferris Wheel of Budapest, so plan your visit accordingly.

Address: Budapest, Erzsébet tér 1051, 1051

Official site: https://oriaskerek.com/en/

Atop Gellért Hill is a series of serene sculptures called the Garden of Philosophers. The installation was created in the 1990s by Hungarian sculptor Nándor Wagner who wanted his work to inspire a better understanding of the world's religions and philosophies.

It features Buddha, Abraham, Jesus, Laozi, and Akhenaten situated around a shiny orb. You can also see statues of Mahatma Gandhi, Saint Francis, and Bodhidharma along the sidelines.

The beautiful attraction offers the opportunity to take a few moments out of a day of sightseeing for quiet contemplation.

The best option when it comes to finding accommodations in Budapest is to focus on the Pest side of the Danube (the east bank), home to wide cobbled streets as well as attractions such as the Parliament Buildings and the Museum of Fine Arts.

Luxury Hotels:

• For stunning views over the Danube, try the Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace , popular for its large rooms with high ceilings and excellent indoor spa and pool.
• In the heart of Pest's palace district, historic Hotel Palazzo Zichy impresses from the get-go with its palatial foyer and sumptuously decorated, spacious rooms.
• Equally luxurious, the Corinthia Hotel Budapest boasts large, well-appointed rooms, some overlooking a lovely courtyard. Guests can also enjoy the terraced indoor pool.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Steps from great shopping and dining, the Casati Budapest Hotel offers a relatively quiet, intimate experience of the city due to its small size (check out the sauna and gym in the brick-lined cellar).
• Another boutique hotel in the heart of Pest, Gerloczy Rooms de Lux offers larger rooms with high ceilings, the best with balconies overlooking a picturesque city square.
• A little more modern, the Bo18 Hotel Superior offers well-appointed rooms, along with amenities such as a gym, hot tub, and Finnish and infrared saunas.

Budget Hotels:

• Popular for its affordability and central location in the heart of Pest, Hotel Erzsebet City Center offers good-sized modern rooms.
• Although a little further east of Pest's inner city area, Hotel Chesscom offers large rooms and is close to public transport and the airport.
• Also close to public transport, the charming Kis Gellert Guesthouse offers excellent value in a quiet area of town.
• Sightseeing: For independent sightseeing and to get oriented with the city, the Budapest Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off Tour is a great option. This excellent tour option incorporates bus stops at all major tourist attractions. Tickets are valid for 24, 48, or 72 hours. If you are pressed for time or would like a more in-depth guided tour, the Budapest Half-Day Sightseeing Tour is your best bet. For a unique perspective on this scenic city try a Budapest Night Walking Tour and River Cruise to see the Buda Castle and the Chain Bridge lit up at night and capture some awesome photos.
• Day Trips: If you want to see more of this fascinating region than just Budapest, there are some wonderful day trip options. You can visit Slovakia's capital on this Private Bratislava Day Trip from Budapest . The 10-hour tour will show you popular attractions, like Michael's Gate and Bratislava Castle. Nature lovers can also hike the beautiful mountains surrounding Budapest on this One Day Wonder Hiking Trip . A private guide will take you to Prédikálószék peak and Ram Canyon at whatever pace is most comfortable for you, giving you time to appreciate the scenic waterfalls and forest.

Some of the top destinations in Hungary can be visited on easy day trips from Budapest , which makes it a good base for visitors. A tour of Eastern Europe's capitals combines Budapest with visits to Bucharest in Romania , and the picturesque city of Prague in the Czech Republic. Like Budapest, Prague is crowned by a beautiful hilltop castle .

A good stopover en route to Prague is the art-filled city of Brno . Only 2.5 hours by train or a three-hour drive from Budapest is the cultural city of Vienna , on the Danube River in the heart of beautiful Austria.

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Budapest top tourist attractions city travel maps

City centre detailed travel guide in english showing must-see places & best destinations to visit - budapest top tourist attractions map.

Maps of best attractions in Budapest, Hungary

Budapest maps will guide you to the best destinations in this historic and sprawling city. By following the maps you be able to locate the major sights and experiences. Budapest is surprisingly easy to navigate with the use of the excellent public transportation network which includes Metro (M1, M2, M3, M3 lines), trams, funicular rail and buses. The city is split down the center by the Danube River. On the west side of the Danube is hilly Buda, and on the east is flat Pest. Buda and Pest are connected by a series of characteristic bridges, e.g. Margaret Bridge, the famous Chain Bridge or the Elisabeth Bridge. These bridges are fun to cross by foot, but it’s faster to go under the river (on the M2/red Metro line), or to cross over it by tram or bus. The maps will show you the detailed locations of the must-see sights including Szechenyi Baths, Castle Hill, Turkish thermal baths, City Park, Royal Castle, House of Terror, Great Synagogue, Jewish Quarter, Vaci Utca, Aquaworld, Gellert Baths, Deak Square, Liberty Bridge, Little Princess statue, Memento Park, National Museum, St Stephen Basilica, National Theatre, Parliament, Virgin Mary Cave Church, Zoo - just click on a selected map to access a high resolution version that can be downloaded and printed; or saved onto your mobile device.

Free inner city map with main landmarks, historical sights, Jewish Quarter, Great Synagogue, museums, churches, pubs, bars, nightlife clubs - Budapest iconic tourist attractions map

You can view, download or print a full, high resolution (detailed, large) version of this image by clicking on the plan itself

Points of interest, pedestrian walking area, Metro stops, shopping malls, tourist information office, train rail transit - Budapest jpg map

Metro (subway, underground, tube) & tram (tramway) stations - Suburban HEV railway lines - BKK public transport system network with Liszt Ferenc airport terminal link - Budapest map

Big Bus city sightseeing hop-on hop-off double decker open top bus tour stops with boat river cruises, night coaches & hotels - Budapest free city map

One-day trip to explore top 15 great spots & major sites worth visiting - What to see - Where to go - What to do - Budapest printable sightseeing map

Thermal turkish baths, spas, swimming pools including Szechenyi & Gellert Baths - Fun things to do with family & kids - Budapest large scale map

Buda famous must-do sites - Visitor itinerary planner showing Chain Bridge, Fisherman's Bastion - Budapest offline map

Pest favourite must-go locations - Most popular historical buildings including House of Terror, Great Market Hall - Budapest pop up map

Danube River, Margaret Island, City Park, Museum of Fine Arts, Budapest Zoo - Budapest online map

Old Town hop-on hop-off pink & green bus tour routes diagram showing Royal Castle Hill, Heroe's Square - Budapest simple map

Street plan with road names - Bird's eye aerial 3d virtual interactive view poster - Budapest tourist guide map

Vaci & Kiraly Streets direction map of central district neighborhood zone regions showing Liberty Bridge - Budapest main tourist attractions map

City center map of monuments for tourist including Elizabeth Bridge, State Opera, National Museum - Budapest map of things to do

Map of top 10 attractions in Budapest

The typical top ten attractions are listed below. You can find the detailed locations of these places on the maps above.

• Szechenyi Baths - Budapest's steamy soaking scene in City Park — the city's single best attraction.
• Great Market Hall - Colorful Old World shopping mall with produce, eateries, souvenirs, and great people-watching.
• House of Terror - Harrowing remembrance of Nazis and communist secret police in former headquarters/torture site.
• Hungarian Parliament - Vast riverside government center with remarkable interior.
• Heroes' Square - Mammoth tribute to Hungary's historic figures, fronted by art museums.
• Great Synagogue (Grand Synagogue) - The world's second-largest, with fancy interior, good museum, and memorial garden.
• Gellert Baths - Touristy baths in historic Buda hotel.
• Walk Across the Chain Bridge - The Chain Bridge was considered to be one of the wonders of the world and the architect was so immensely proud of his work that he challenged anyone to find fault with the bridge. It is said that when it was discovered that the lions that stand guard at either end are missing their tongues, the architect committed suicide.
• City Park (Varosliget) - Budapest's backyard, with Art Nouveau zoo, Transylvanian Vajdahunyad Castle replica, amusement park, and Szechenyi Baths.
• Margaret Island - Budapest's traffic-free urban playground, with spas, ruins, gardens, a game farm, and fountains, set in the middle of the Danube.

Other popular landmarks and activities include:

• Vaci Utca Street - A street famous for its shops and korzo (promenade) since the eighteenth century.
• Gellert Hill Liberation Monument - Situated in a park on Gellért Hill, the monument is visible from all over the city. It is now one of the symbols of Budapest.
• Hungarian State Opera House - Neo-Renaissance splendor and affordable opera.
• Hungarian National Gallery - Top works by Hungarian artists, housed in the Royal Palace.
• Memento Park - Larger-than-life communist statues all collected in one park, on the outskirts of town.
• Hospital in the Rock - Fascinating underground network of hospital and bomb-shelter corridors from WWII and the Cold War.
• Szabadsag Ter - Monumental square with a controversial obelisk honoring Soviet 'liberators'.
• St. Istvan's Basilica - Budapest's largest church, with a saint's withered fist and great city views.
• Take a Danube River Cruise - Budapest is beautiful by day, but absolutely stunning by night as the buildings lining the banks of the Danube twinkle and reflect on the dark waters.
• Matthias Church - Landmark Neo-Gothic church with gilded history-book interior and revered 16th-century statue of Mary and Jesus.
• Lookout from the Fisherman's Bastion - The neo-Gothic terrace of the Fisherman's Bastion is located on the Castle Hill and provides panoramic views of the city.

What are some interesting facts about Budapest?

The name 'Budapest' is the composition of the city names 'Buda' and 'Pest,' which merged along with third part Obuda (Ancient Buda) into a single city in 1873.

Budapest is a host to a number of World Heritage Sites, including its banks of the Danube, the Buda Castle Quarter, Andrassy Avenue, Heroes' Square and the Millennium Underground Railway. It is also ranked as the most livable Central/Eastern European city on EIU's quality of life index, Europe's 7th most idyllic place to live by Forbes, and as the 9th most beautiful city in the world by UCityGuides.

Budapest has the second oldest metro in the world, built after the one build in London. Work on the first (yellow) metro live began in 1896. Today the city is served by 4 lines.

The city has more thermal springs than any other capital in the world. An amazing 70 million liters of thermal water rises to the surface daily. As a result, there a number of medicinal baths all around Budapest, which have been enjoyed by millions of people since the Roman Empire.

You'll find one of the world's longest passenger tram in Budapest. It's a 54-metre (177 ft) long Siemens Combino, which run at 60 to 90 second intervals at peak time and 3–4 minutes off-peak and is usually packed with people. Aside from trams, the city's public transportation also includes three metro lines, as well as buses, trolleybuses, suburban railway lines, a boat service, a cogwheel railway, a funicular, and a chairlift called Libego.

Budapest is a host to the popular Sziget Festival, which is visited by some 400,000 people. It takes place on a large Hajogyari-sziget island where both locals and tourists come to have a fun time.

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Budapest  >  Central Budapest Free Walking Tour

‎ Budapest Tourist Tips ‎ |  Suggested Itineraries For Budapest

• Central Pest Walking Tour
• Jewish Quarter Walking Tour
• Castle Hill Walking Tour
• City Park Walking Tour
• Gellért Hill Walking Tour
• More Sights
• Best Day Trips
• Helpful Visitor Tips
• Suggested Itineraries

Free Budapest Walking Tour:

Location :  Pest ( East Side of Danube River ) Cost :  Free, Self-Guided ( Museum and sight costs below ) Style :  Do-It-Yourself Walking Tour ( Self Guided ) Start :  Holocaust Shoe Memorial Stop :  Grand Market Hall Walking Distance :  3 Miles Time :  1 hour of walking ( 4 hours with sights; +1 hour for Parliament Tour ) Fun Scale :  9 out of 10

Central Pest Overview:

Sitting of the Eastern bank of the Danube River is Budapest’s lively and history Pest neighborhood.  Pest was founded in was an economic powerhouse in the 11th-13th Centuries until it was sacked by the Mongols in 1241.  The city made a comeback through the Middle Ages which later lead to grand buildings and cathedrals.  After severe flooding spread 8 feet of water through Pest, it merged with Buda and Óbuda on the Western bank in 1873.

Even through all of the changes and wars, Pest has retained many historic monuments like Saint Stephen’s Basilica and the Hungarian Parliament to remain the heart of Budapest.  Our self-guided walking tour through central Pest is the perfect way to get a feel for the Budapest’s history.  Different sights will highlight Pest’s war-torn past, the days of power grandeur, plus an easy to love culture and flair.

Pest Walking Tour Sights:

1. holocaust shoe memorial :.

About The Holocaust Shoe Memorial :  On first glance, the Holocaust Shoe Memorial looks like just a collection of bronzed shoes by the waterside, but knowing the history of this spot makes a visit truly moving.  During WWII, the Nazi’s secret police group  Arrow Cross  often executed Jews and other citizens here by shooting them then pushing them into the Danube River.  All of the victims were required to line up and take their shoes off not knowing which of them would be shot.  When the Nazis wanted to save bullets they would tie a few people together, shoot one, push the group into the freezing river, and watch the dead bodies drag the entire group down.  The Memorial’s 60, 1940’s era shoes represent the shoes left behind by the fallen Arrow Cross victims and you really should not missed it.

As you walk North along the river the big white mansion on your right is the  Office of the Prime Minister .  The building once was a mansion for Hungarian aristocrats, and the grandmother of US Sectary of State and former Presidential candidate John Kerry’s grandmother was born here as a daughter of the chambermaid.

2. Hungarian Parliament Building :

About The Hungarian Parliament Building :  The huge Gothic-style Hungarian Parliament, or House of the Nation, is the formal  seat of government for Hungary  and the most photographed monument in Budapest.  The massive 315-foot-tall and 879-foot-long building is a symbol of Hungary’s power as it dominates the Eastern bank of the Danube River.  The Parliament’s silhouette of the white Gothic spires, red domes, and 242 sculptures is breathtaking.

Construction of the Parliament started shortly after Budapest was united out of three cities ( Óbuda, Buda, and Pest ) in 1873 to centralize Hungary’s government.  Although it wasn’t completed until in 1904, the building was symbolically consecrated 1896 to mark the 1,000th anniversary of the country being formed.  It is impossible to not be impressed by the grandeur of the Hungarian Parliament with its exterior spires and interior filled with carved woodwork, stained glass windows, Gothic arches.  We will talk more about the interior of the Parliament next on this free Budapest walking tour, but first we want to point out a few other of the interesting exterior features you should know about.

On the North side of the Hungarian Parliament Building is a small park with a memorial statue from 1975 for controversial former president Károlyi Mihály (ruled from  1918-19 ).  Early in his political career, Mihály was credited with helping give women, veterans, and other citizens the right to vote in 1915.  He became Prime Minister after opposing the previous leader ( who got them into WWI ), and then quickly turned Hungary into a democracy.  With an anti-war mindset, Mihály pushed for Hungary to make peace with the Allied Nations to end WWI, but was forced out of power after his efforts led to too many territory concessions.  In the end, Hungary did have to give up further land to end the war with the  Peace Treaty of Trianon  which also led to a long economic decline.  With these negative circumstances considered, modern Hungarians look past the bad things under Mihály and honor the good intentions he had for the country.

Another larger statue around the Parliament grounds is of former president  Lajos Kossuth  (ruled from  1848-49 ) on a red stone pedestal directing both the people and the army.  Kossuth was the President through the Revolution of 1848-49 and was a strong social advocate who signed the first law which recognizing minority rights in Europe.  The inscription at the memorial calls him “Father of Hungarian Democracy, Hungarian Statesman, Freedom Fighter”.

3. Hungarian Parliament Interior :

About The Hungarian Parliament Interior :  While we love the admire the Parliament Building from every possible angle on the outside, you really need to see the gorgeous interior.  In total there are 10 courtyards, 28 staircases, and 691 rooms inside the massive complex.

On a tour of the interior of the Hungarian Parliament you will see some of the most beautiful rooms for 50 minutes with a guide.  The tours start with a walk down the gold-plated Staircase XVII framed by statues, stained glass.  Old Upper House Hall which has colorful paintings of Hungary’s royal families and murals depicting the historical role of the nobility in a medieval beer hall style room.  This leads to the Upper House Lobby which is the most exotic space in the Parliament resembling the inside of an Ottoman Sultan’s palace .  The large wrap around murals in both the Nándorfehérvár and Munkácsy Halls are also very impressive with their depictions of religious and battle scenes.

Reaching the geometric center of the House of Parliament and the symbolic center of Hungary, you enter the sixteen-sided Dome Hall.  Since 2000 this vast space is has been home to the Holy Crown Of Hungary  protected 24 hours a day by two royal guards.  The Byzantine-style royal crown dates back to the between 1031-1070s, was made in Constantinople ( modern-day Istanbul ), and was used to coronate over 50 Hungarian Kings.  Make to look up at the stunning ceiling while inside the Dome Hall which looks like a radiant sun beaming light down on you.

We love the main corridors filled with statues representing the different Medieval professions from horse herders to stonecutters, but the Grand Stairway is the most impressive space.  The combination of arches, ceiling murals, and lighting make the Grand Stairway feel like the inside of an old-world castle.

General Hours : April-October 8am-6pm; November-March 8am-4pm.   Guided Tours :  50-minute tours leave from the underground entrance on the park side of the building toward the East ( away from the river ).  Tours in English at 10am, Noon, 1pm, 1:45pm & 3pm; many other languages available throughout the day.   Tour Cost :  6000 HUF for Adults; 2400 HUF for EU Citizens; Students Half price; Kids 6 & Under Free.   Buying Tickets :  Tickets can be purchased in advance to save yourself waiting in line and can sell out if you don’t buy in advance.   Parliament Website :  ( HERE ).

4. Museum of Ethnography ( Neprajzi Muzeum ):

About The Museum of Ethnography :  The Museum of Ethnography is a great way to get an eclectic mix of cultures throughout the World all in one building.  They have a diverse collection of more than  200,000 ethnographic artifacts , as well as historical photographs, manuscripts, folk music recordings, and videos of everything you can think of.  Its European collection covers every ethnic group on the continent, its Oceania and Africa Collections are assembled by famous Hungarian world travelers and ethnologists, and its collections of authentic artifacts from America, Asia, and Indonesia, are also pretty awesome.

The palace-like building housing the Museum of Ethnography was actually first built for the Department of Justice in the 1800s as a Supreme Court, and supreme it is.  Its grand style and richly ornamented interior reflect the powerful place Hungary’s government occupied in Europe in the 1800s.  The museum was moved here in 1973 and it just seems like a perfect fit.  You’ll be wowed from the second you step into the dimly lit grand hall and entertained through the last exhibit.  Adults seem to appreciate the collects more than kids do.

Hours :  Tuesday-Sunday 10am-6pm; Closed Mondays.   Cost :  1000 HUF; 500 HUF for EU Citizens; special exhibit combo tickets are usually 200 HUF more.   Guided Tours :  Available in numerous languages and 8,000 HUF covers a group up to 25 people.   Museum Website :  ( HERE ).

Closure Notice : The museum is closed for renovations and will re-open sometime in 2020.

5. Imre Nagy Memorial :

About The Imre Nagy Memorial :  Located in the middle of the small leafy Martyrs Square ( Vértanúk Tere ) is the Imre Nagy Memorial consisting of a cozy footbridge and the former leader symbolically looking out over Parliament .  Nagy was Prime Minister of Hungary during the anti-Soviet Revolution of 1956 when many Hungarian Citizens fought to get rid of Soviet influence.  The Revolution was foiled but Nagy shared the group’s views and took action to make his Communist government neutral from both the Soviets and Stalin.  The biggest step he took was when he withdrew from the Warsaw Pact  and asked the United Nations to recognize Hungary and a neutral 3rd party.  He also took steps to open the Hungarian Government up to a multi-party system although he remained himself a Marxist.

The steps Nagy took faced a lot of hostility as the Soviets had helped liberate Hungary from the Nazis at the end of WWII and many Government officials were still loyal to the USSR.  Because of these strong loyalties, Nagy was arrested for treason in 1958, tried secretly, executed by hanging, and was buried in an unmarked grave.  Many viewed this as a message from the USSR to other Communist leaders of what would happen if they started growing away from them.  The corruption involved was obvious since the same man who had Nagy tried for treason ( János Kádár ) became the next Prime Minister.  Over the following 30 years of Communist rule, it became illegal to utter Nagy’s name as he was viewed as a martyr and symbol of freedom.  After Communism fell in 1989, Nagy was reburied and a crowd of over 200,000 people gathered in Heroes’ Square near Budapest’s City Park for his funeral.

6. Freedom Square ( Szabadság Tér ):

About Freedom Square :  Named after the freedom fighters who were executed here in the 1840s, Freedom Square is actually the former site of a military barracks.  The main highlight of the square is the  Soviet Monument  dedicated to the Soviet’s Red Army troops who liberated Hungary from the Nazis at the end of WWII.  A standing Soviet Monument is really quite rare in Budapest as most Communist statues were moved to Memento Park outside of town when Hungary became a true Democracy in 1989.  While most modern-day Hungarians seem to want the Soviet Monument removed, try to view the monument as more of a celebration for the Nazis being kicked out than as an honor for Soviets coming in.  The square also holds other monuments to freedom including a statue of Ronald Regan who was the US President the year Communism ended in Hungary.

7. The Fat Policeman Statue :

About The Fat Policeman Statue :  The iconic bronze statue of the Fat Policeman is one of many good luck statues you will see on this free Budapest walking tour.  The statue was added along Zrínyi Street in 2008 by artist Illyés András who used his own grandfather as inspiration.  The exaggerated features of the Fat Policeman, especially the huge belly, are meant to show how hearty the Hungarian foods like goulash are.  It has become a tradition to rub the gut of the Fat Policeman for good luck which keeps like belly a shiny gold color.

8. Saint Stephen’s Basilica ( Szent István Bazilika ):

About Saint Stephen’s Basilica :  The two towers and large dome of the huge, 315 foot tall Saint Stephen’s Basilica towers of the large open square around it.  This powerful church is named after Stephen, the  first King of Hungary  ( 975–1038 ), whose mummified fist is still housed in the reliquary.  His first is known locally as the Holy Right and can be seen in the back of the church mummified and holding jewels.  The display is dark and they make you pay 100 HUF to light it up which is pretty weird, but worth it.  If you are looking to see it for free you have to be in town on August 20th known as St Stephen Day when they have the hand attend services and also lead the parade in his honor.

As you can imagine with a church this big the construction, which started in 1851, didn’t go as smooth as they wanted.  The first dome collapsed 17 years after the groundbreaking and then the second architect Miklos Ybl, who also built the  Opera House , died.  It seemed like the church was doomed, but finally they got it all together 50 years after the groundbreaking.  After the stabilized Church was finally standing strong, the best painters and sculptures in Hungary came in to finish off the masterpiece.

The interior today is a great mix of light and dark, stone and wood, marble and gilding to combine into a very impressive church.  We highly suggest swinging by the treasury, twin bell towers, and Szent Jobb Chapel.  Among the two bell towers, the left tower has one of the better panoramic views of Budapest and the right tower houses a giant 9-ton church bell.  Which one you choose depends on what you want to see.

Visitor Hours :  Church is open Daily 7am-7pm; Treasury is 9am-5pm ( 10am-4pm in winter ); Szent Jobb Chapel 9am-5pm ( Sundays 1pm-5pm ); Tower daily 10am-4:30pm ( July-September until 6pm ).   Cost :  Church Free; Treasury 400 Ft; Tower 500 Ft.  Church Services :  Daily 8am, 530pm, & 6pm; Sunday Mass is at 8am, 9am,10am, Noon, 6pm, & 7pm.   Church Website :  ( HERE ).

9. Elizabeth Park ( Erzsébet Tér ):

About Elizabeth Park :  Elizabeth Park is a great park to visit any day of the week and is extra busy on the weekends.   The area is busy not just because it is a large beautiful and hip park, but also because it is a cross roads for three different Metro Lines which leads to a very eclectic crowd.  The West side of the Square is more of a laid-back standard park area with trees and fountains while the East side is definitely the bustling, young, hip area.  Adding to the hipness of the East side are a large look-like pond and multi-level terraces filled with outdoor furniture.

This area is surrounded by numerous cafes where you can grab a bit to eat or a drink.  Many locals bring their own wine in the evening and drink around the pond.  Also on the East side, there are the two popular bars/nightclubs called Gödör Klub ( website ) and Akvárium Klub ( website ).  We love both of them, but end up spending more time in Akvárium as we really like their outdoor fit pits in the Winter.  The funky band memorabilia and Volt signage in the lobby of Akvárium comes from the annual Volt Musical Festival they help promote in Western Hungary which 80,000 people go to.

Just off of the Southeast corner of the Park is the giant yellow Anker Mansion House which was built as the first apartment building in Budapest in 1907.   The two-towered building, with its pyramid roof, gets its name from the Anker Life and Pension Insurance Company which first built it.

10. Gresham Palace Four Seasons Hotel :

About Gresham Palace :  Overlooking Roosevelt Park at the foot of the famous Chain Bridge, is the architectural treat called Gresham Palace.  The Palace was built in 1906 as the grand headquarters for the foreign Gresham Life Insurance Company and they spared no expense.  The headquarters were built so fancy that tons of wealthy British aristocrats all spent time living on the upper floors.

During WWII the Soviets used Gresham Palace to house troops and after the war, the damaged building served as a rundown apartment complex.  Finally, after over 50 years of falling apart, the Four Season’s Hotel chain bought the property and quickly restored to its original grandeur.  Today the Palace serves as a great backdrop to Roosevelt square and offers great views of Castle Hill which is directly across the Danube River.  Even if you can’t afford its $400+ a night rooms, a brief stroll through the magnificent lobby will leave you in awe.

Sitting in front of Gresham Palace is a long park called  Roosevelt Square .  On the North side of the Park statue of Count István Széchenyi ( 1791-1860 ) who founded the Hungarian Academy of Sciences and also originally thought up nearby Chain Bridge. The Southside has its own statue of Ferenc Deák ( 1803-1876 ), who advanced relations between Austria and Hungary and had the nickname “Wise Man”.   Hotel Website :  ( HERE ).

11. Chain Bridge ( Széchenyi Lanchid ):

About The Chain Bridge :  The historic quarter-mile long Chain Bridge was  completed in 1849  as the first permanent bridge connecting Buda and Pest.  The bridge was needed to help Pest escape constant flooding and led to the city merging with Buda and Óbuda to form Budapest in 1873.  With  large lion statues  guarding all four corners of the Bridge, its easy to feel its power.  Great photo opportunities come not only from the statues but also from the Chain Bridge itself with the breath-taking Buda Hills & Royal Palace in the background.  The Chain Bridge is absolutely gorgeous when it is lit up at night.

If you only have a short amount of time in Budapest we suggest that your break this  free Budapest Walking Tour  off here and follow the Chain Bridge across the Danube River to follow our  Castle Hill Walking Tour .   If you have a few days in Budapest, however, continue on this tour taking your time and visit Castle Hill later.

12. The Spoon Restaurant :

About The Spoon Restaurant :  The Spoon is an amazing restaurant inside a docked boat right on the Danube River.  The setting on the water is especially beautiful at night.  Whether you are looking for a romantic dinner or just a beautiful place to get a drink we highly suggest the Spoon.  The-250 foot-long three level riverboat has two restaurants, five bars, a panoramic open terrace, convertible winter garden, and an underwater Oriental bar.  The Spoon remains docked the entire year so it’s always there and has a lot of outdoor seating plus posh inside seating.  It’s worth buying a drink or food just to be able to check The Spoon out and take some photos especially if you go down into the Red Velvet Oriental Bar on the bottom level.

Depending on your taste for the menu there is also a second really good boat restaurant right next door to The Spoon called the Vén Hajó ( website ).  After your visit, we suggest taking the crosswalk between the two boat restaurants to reach the steps that will up the opposite side of the tram tracks.  Crossing here is the easiest way to continue with the rest of the sites on the free Budapest walking otherwise you will have to go down the riverfront a long distance for the next set of steps.

Cost :  High end drinks average $6-15; Meals are $10-20.   Hours :  Daily Noon-Midnight.   Restaurant Website :  ( HERE ).

13. Royal Princess Statue ( Kis Királylány ):

About The Royal Princess Statue :  Often referred to as the Jester, the bronze Royal Princess Statue is one of the top photo opportunities in Budapest with the Danube River and Royal Palace in the background.  The artist, László Marton, modeled the famous statue after his daughter who often dressed with a paper newspaper crown to pretend to be a princess.  The original Royal Princess Statue can be seen at the Hungarian National Gallery and this larger replica was created added near the tram tracks in front of Vigado Square in 1990.

Like the Fat Policeman Statue’s belly from earlier on this free Budapest walking tour, the Princess has gained polished golden knees from visitors rubbing her for good luck.  The artist, László Marton, also has a noteworthy statue of poet Attila József sitting on the riverside steps not far from the Hungarian Parliament Building.  On a trip to Budapest,  Prince Charles  of England liked the Royal Prince Statue so much he had a replica made for his residence in London.

14. Vörösmarty Square :

About Vörösmarty Square :  As you enter the large Vörösmarty Square you will find a huge limestone statue of  writer Mihály Vörösmarty , who the Square is named after.  Vörösmarty gained his fame not just from his romanticized poems and plays, but also for his patriotic lyrics making him a national treasure.  The statue was built in 1908 on a pedestal of limestone blocks and is surrounded by tons of figures representing different classes of Hungarian society.  These figures include a farmer, students, peasants among many others.  Vörösmarty’s writings were both appealing to and made up of a very wide range of people as you can tell by the diversity of the  figures who surround him.

The Square is also home to the Vörösmarty tér Metro Stop, but it is the beautiful  Gerbeaud Café  ( website )opened in 1858 that you will remember the most.  Gerbeaud Café is a delightful pastry shop with a lavish marble and ornate interior whose white facade dominated the Square.  If pastries are not your thing, Gerbeaud also has a nice authentic pub and a great high-end restaurant that will make you feel like a Hungarian aristocrat.  Gerbeaud can hold up to 300 guests inside and also has great outdoor seating, so don’t worry about getting served if you see a crowd, there is plenty of room for everyone.  You can always get something to go and do a makeshift picnic.

Our favorite time of year to visit Vörösmarty Square is in December when you’ll be treated to a number of great outdoor stands that make up Budapest’s Christmas Fair and Market.  The Market has the perfect look and feels just like the large Christmas markets of Austria and Germany.

15. Váci Shopping Street (Váci Utca):

About Váci Utca :  The pedestrian-only Váci Street is the best shopping area in all of Budapest and stretches all the way from Vörösmarty Square to the Great Market Hall.  The architecture along the street is some of the best from the 1700s, the atmosphere is always upbeat, and there is a great mix of both affordable souvenir shops and high-end fashion boutiques.  If you wander slightly off Váci Utca, in almost any direction, you can find a great number of mom-n-pop style eateries that have great deals and even better food.

Speaking of food, notice the  Historic McDonald’s  on your right as you begin down Váci, it is a big deal. This McDonald’s was the first Western fast food restaurant built in the Communist East Block when is came here in 1988.  The people of Budapest were so excited for McDonald’s to be here that the line to get food typically ran outside the restaurant and down the road a few blocks.   McDonald’s went on to build what we feel is their fanciest restaurant in the World to the Northeast of here near the train station, which is also marked on the map above.

While the McDonald’s and the shopping on Váci Utca are special, the most unique thing is definitely the statue of the  Peeing Boy .   It is quite literally is a statue of a peeing boy and serves as a gathering spot for travelers looking to rest their feet.  As you continue down the street make sure to investigate numerous statues you come across.

16. Roman Fortress Ruins ( Contra Aquincum ):

About Contra Aquincum :  The Roman city of Aquincum ( modern Óbuda ) was founded just up the river from here on the opposite bank of the Danube in 41AD and became the capital of the state of Pannonia in 106AD.  This elevated status made Aquincum a target of rival Barbarian groups which led to the need for greater protection.  A large fortress called Contra Aquincum was built here in the early 100s AD to serve as the first line of defense for the regional capital.

Interestingly the Contra Aquincum was built on the Barbarian side of the Danube which was not fully controlled by the Romans.  The placement of the fortress on just beyond the Roman borders at the edge of the frontier made it very important.  When Roman Emperor Diocletian visited in 296AD he ordered the fortress be massively re-enforced.  It was common for Emperors to visit Budapest and many did starting with Domitian in 86AD through Valentinian I in 374AD.

After the Romans left, the Hungarians continued to use Contra Aquincum for defense until around just after the country was officially founded in 896AD.  A settlement began to grow around the former fortress which sparked the true beginning of the city of Pest .  Much of the village and the remains of the fortress were ravaged in the Mongol Invasion of 1241, but the city continued to grow.  In Medieval times a wall protected Pest and on any modern map you see a natural half circle in the road ( Károly > Múzeum > Vámház ) 5 blocks out from the river where the wall enclosed the Inner City of Pest.

Through the plexiglass viewpoints middle of Március Square, you can still see parts from the original Contra Aquincum Fortress sitting just below the pavement.  These Roman ruins used to be open air, but had to be covered in the early 2000s to protect them from vandalization.  If you are further interested in the Roman history of Budapest you can visit the ruins of the former regional capital Aquincum just North of the city with an easy 20-30 minute metro ride from the center of town.

17. Inner City Parish (Belvárosi):

About Inner City Parish :  Rebuilt numerous times over the centuries, the Inner City Parish was the heart of the neighborhood of Pest in Medieval times.  In as early as 296 this location was the watchtower for the Roman Contra-Aquincum Fortress and was then a massive military control room by 350.  When the Romans left, a small village ( Pest ) began to form around the old fortress.  Shortly after Hungary officially formed in 896 the fortress was no longer needed and the first church was built here in the 11th century by Hungary’s first King Saint Stephen ( 1000-1038 ) to honor the Virgin Mary.

The original Inner City Parish was made of stone with three naves and was said to have inspired other famous churches like the hand-carved  Ják Abbey.  This early church was where the  monk Saint Gellért was buried after he was martyred just across the river on Gellért Hill in 1046.  Saint Gellért ( Gerard of Csanád ) had been put in a barrel and rolled to his death by citizens resisting his attempts to convert them to Christianity.  The church even had to be extended in 1053 to hold all of the new relics from Saint Gellért ( who was a mentor of King Stephen ).  Some of his foot bones and vertebra can be still found at the altar Inner City Parish even though much of the original church which was destroyed by the Mongols in 1241.  There are also bones from Hungarian Princess Elizabeth ( 1207-1239 ) who was engaged in the church to Saxon count at age four.  Our favorite remnant on display from this era of the church is a marvelous fresco of the Virgin Mary sitting in a throne.

A second church was built here in the Gothic-style and was famously where a congregation of nobles  appointed Matthias Corvinus  the King of Hungary on January 23rd, 1458.  The Gothic parish survived being converted into a Mosque during Ottoman rule ( 1541-1686 ) and was turned back to a church again before burning in a fire in 1723.  The third and current Franciscan ( Catholic ) church was heavily influenced by the Austrian-Hungarian alliance as its Baroque-style looks like many of the small parishes near Salzburg and Vienna.  The beloved Hungarian composer Franz Liszt even lived and worked on the church grounds between 1858-1871.  From the ancient Roman sections, to the original Medieval cellars, and the Muslim Mihrab niche near the altar, it is very interesting to see all parts of the parish’s history incorporated into the current church.

You can learn more about the famous monk Saint Gellért on our  Gellért Hill Walking Tour . which picks up just across the Danube River from the Inner City Parish.

Entrance Cost : 1,000 HUF for Adults; 700 HUF for Children; Kids 6 & Under are Free.  Hours :  Weekdays 9am-4:30pm; limited hours in the evenings and weekends due to church services.  Website : Here .

18. University Library & Ybl Palace :

About University Library & Ybl Palace :  A series of great mosaic title roofs all right next to each other leads to one of the more icon photos opportunities in Budapest.  The blue and grey Ybl Palace was designed as an upscale apartment building in 1869 by famous Hungarian architect Miklós Ybl.  Ybl’s best-known work is the Hungarian Opera House, but his influence in the buildings of Budapest seems to pop up all over.  The bright yellow University Library houses many priceless works of literature and art including works from the days of King Matthias and Hungary’s founding.

19. University Church ( Egyetemi Templomi ):

About University Church :  Built in 1742 on the site of a Turkish Mosque, the University Church is by far the biggest and best baroque-style church in Budapest.   It is tucked tightly into an alley on Egyetem Tér but is easily viewed and photographed at the nearby Károly Garden to the Northeast. The exterior dominated by two green-cap towers, which were added in 1771 and statues of the hermits Paul and Anthony in the middle.  Can you spot the palm between two lions with a raven?  This is the traditional emblem of the Pauline Order of priests and it sits directly above the image of Madonna on a globe.  The theme of the Madonna carries inside as the interiors frescoes are full of scenes depicting the life of the Virgin.

20. Hungarian National Museum :

About The Hungarian National Museum :  Housed in a building that looks like the U.S. Supreme Court, the Hungarian National Museum has been an icon of Budapest ever since it was built in 1807.  The museums main claim to fame was when a reading on the front steps of Sándor Petőfi’s  12 Points  and famous poem  Nemzeti Dal  partially helped inspire citizens to begin the Revolution of 1848.   Today there are two statues at the museum commemorating this Revolution.  The most fascinating exhibits are the preserved art treasures, and Princes from Afar, but whatever the Exhibit of the Month happens to be is usually worth the stop in itself.

Cost :  Adults 1600 HUF; Discounts for students and families.   Hours :  Tuesday-Sunday 10am-6pm; closed Mondays.   Museum Website :  ( HERE ).

21. For Sale Pub :

About For Sale Pub :  One of the most famous pubs in Budapest because of the unique decor.  For centuries it was a custom around town for people to post their items for sale in their local pub as an early version of classified ads.  This pub carries on that tradition as every inch of the walls and ceiling are covered in paper for sale notices.  The floor even looks like an old barn-style tavern with nut shells and loose straw scattered about.

Hours :  Daily Noon-3am; can get very busy from 7-10pm which a reservation is suggested by phone.   Phone :  +36 70 599 3860

22. Grand Market Hall ( Nagycsarnok ):

About The Grand Market Hall :  Also known as Central Market Hall, this three-story-tall bustling food epicenter is grand indeed.  The basement has a large grocery area, the second floor has a lot of meat and vegetable sellers, and the second floor has a bunch of clothing knickknack sellers.  The Grand Market is the most touristy yet the most beautiful of the five major market halls in Budapest.

You can go to the strudel stall on the first floor and taste the typical Hungarian poppy-seed and cabbage strudels. You can also go to the Langos stall (fried salty dough topped by cheese, sour cream ham etc) on the second floor where you can also sample wine and spirits for a reasonable price. You will also find strings of red paprika and garlic, the famous Hungarian salami, sausage, ham and other meat product along with fresh pastry, frisbee-sized salty doughnut, cheap and delicious Hungarian wine and fruit brandies are sold.  Definitely, a must stop while in Budapest and this is the best of the five big markets in town.

Hope you enjoyed your time on the Pest Monument Walking Tour, from here you have a couple different options for where to go next. You can either take the short walk across the bridge which leads you to our  Gellért Hill Walking Tour , you can head straight north on Vaci Utca to catch up on any shops you miss, or you can head back up to Kalvin Square to jump on the Metro – the choice is yours.

Hours :  Mondays 6am-5pm; Tuesday-Friday 6am-6pm; Saturdays 6am-3pm; Closed Sundays.   Market Website :  ( HERE ).

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As you can see on our Budapest Maps it’s a well-layed-out city, you can’t get lost.

Actually you can explore two cities in one, because Budapest is made up of Buda and Pest , with the Danube flowing between them along a stretch of 28 kilometers.

The two previously independent cities were united with Óbuda in 1873, establishing Budapest.

Hilly Buda lies on the western bank of the Danube and it’s mostly a residential area. Pest stands on a plain and it’s more businesslike with its shops and boulevards.

Pest makes up roughly two-thirds of whole Budapest. You can walk between the two connected, but still very different parts of the city on magnificent bridges . The most famous is the Chain Bridge.

The Danube , and the bridges spanning it, are the best reference points to find your way around in Budapest.

Table of Contents – Budapest Map

Budapest bridges.

• Árpád Bridge (Árpád-híd)
• Margaret Bridge (Margit-híd)
• Chain Bridge (Lánchíd
• Erzsébet Bridge (Erzsébet-híd)
• Liberty Bridge (Szabadság-híd)
• Petőfi Bridge (Petőfi-híd)
• Rákóczi Bridge (formerly Lágymányos Bridge)

Three Main Islands Surrounded by the Danube

• Margitsziget ( Margaret Island ): It’s ideal for leisurely walks. You can get there either via the Margaret Bridge or Árpád Bridge.
• Óbudai-sziget: home to the Sziget Festival every August .
• Csepel-sziget: district XXI. is here. One of the major factories of heavy industry operated in this district in the communist era.

In Pest there are three semicircular roads (called körút = ringroad), the following two are interesting for tourists. You’ll find the major places of interests, attractions along them.

Budapest Map Showing the 23 Districts

Budapest has 23 municipal districts , they are marked by Roman numerals (I.-XXIII.).

About two-thirds of the city is Pest, the rest is Buda (I., II., III., XI., XIII., XXII. districts). Central districts have lower numbers (e.g. I., II.), see below the blue circle on our Budapest map. The outer districts have higher numbers (e.g. XXI., XXII.).

Find out more about Budapest Districts !

Budapest City Map

This is an overview map of downtown Budapest that helps you to get familiar with the inner city’s layout.

Top Budapest Attractions

TIP: Explore Budapest on a Hop On Hop Off Bus! Convenient, air-conditioned bus takes you around the city showing you many sights and attractions. Multi-language audio guide is provided. Inexpensive and fun!

You can read more about and book a Budapest Hop On Hop off Tour here.

TIP: Here you find a more detailed description of our favoutite attractions in Budapest.

Budapest Thermal Baths

Budapest is rich in healing thermal springs that fed several historic thermal complexes:

• Turkish Baths (Király, Rudas, the recently renovated Veli Bej and, the Rác Bath) date back to the Ottoman era in the 16th century
• The Gellért, Széchenyi, and Lukács Baths are more recent establishments, they date from the turn of the 19th-20th. centuries.

Budapest Metro Map

Budapest is easy to explore on foot . Most of the major places of interest fall within a relatively small central area.

Nevertheless you might get tired after walking several hours ,or a sudden summer shower can discourage you from further walking. Budapest has an extensive and efficient public transport system.

Read more about Budapest Public Transpor t and other ways to Travel in Budapest.

Here is more information on Budapest Metro System.

TIP: See also our walk itineraries with map .

See also Our Facebook page for fresh news.

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About the author.

Zoli is a product development engineer who has been living in Budapest for more than 20 years. He loves baking - grows his own sourdough starter - and has a keen interest in urban photography.

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19 Best Things To Do in Budapest

Updated May 8, 2023

The thermal baths are king here, but there are plenty of other ways to kill a day. World-class museums, island parks, shopping and cafes are available in spades. Foot it around Castle Hill for a taste of medieval Budapest or spend an afternoon

• All Things To Do

Fisherman's Bastion (Halászbástya) Fisherman's Bastion (Halászbástya) free

Located in the historic district of  Castle Hill , Fisherman's Bastion is a neo-Gothic terrace that looks like a structure taken straight out of a fairy tale. Designed and built in 1905 by Frigyes Schulek – the same architect who built the adjacent Matthias Church – Fisherman's Bastion is named after the medieval guild of fishermen who protected Budapest from invasion.

Visitors say Fisherman's Bastion's gleaming white structure provides panoramic views of the city: From here, you can snap some breathtaking pictures of the Danube River , Margaret Island and Pest. Also save time for exploring the sight's seven ornate turrets, which symbolize the tents of the seven Magyar leaders who settled the Carpathian Basin, ultimately leading to the existence of modern-day Hungary. 

Danube River Danube River free

Dividing the city's Buda and Pest sides is the impressive Danube River. Flowing roughly 1,770 miles from west Germany through Austria, Slovakia, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, Romania, Moldova and, of course, Hungary, before meeting the Black Sea in southern Ukraine, this sprawling river is the second longest in Europe. Along its Budapest shores, travelers will find iconic sights like the Hungarian Parliament and Buda Castle .

Recent visitors highly recommend checking out the Danube River on foot or by boat. If you decide to go for a stroll, consider doing so at the Danube Promenade, which offers picturesque views and the must-see Shoes on the Danube Bank Holocaust memorial, according to past travelers. Many also suggest signing up for an evening sightseeing cruise through local operators like Legenda Sightseeing Boats and Portum Lines .

Castle Hill (Várhegy) Castle Hill (Várhegy) free

Located on the west side of the Danube River , Castle Hill is a must-see district for any Budapest visitor. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1987, the area's iconic Buda Castle was constructed in the 13th century. Walk the cobblestone streets, take in the medieval atmosphere and dive deep into Budapest's history.

From the castle to  Matthias Church  to the underground Castle Labyrinth to  Fisherman's Bastion , you'll find there's almost no end to what you can learn about Budapest's past. The lack of vehicle traffic also lends an old-world charm to the area. Plus, travelers say you'll discover sweeping city panoramas from multiple locales in the neighborhood.

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Széchenyi Chain Bridge (Széchenyi Lánchíd) Széchenyi Chain Bridge (Széchenyi Lánchíd) free

It's hard to miss the nearly 1,250-foot-long Széchenyi Chain Bridge. Originally built in the 1800s by English engineer William Tierney Clark, this stunning suspension bridge was mostly destroyed during World War II. Though it was badly damaged, it still features its original pillars and stone lions that flank its entrances. Since being reconstructed in the late 1940s, visitors have flocked here to walk, bike and drive across it.

Travelers rave about this impressive bridge, saying it's a superb subject for photos. For the best views, visitors suggest arriving at night when lights illuminate the bridge and surrounding attractions. Sights you can see from the Széchenyi Chain Bridge include Buda Castle and the Hungarian Parliament .

Heroes' Square (Hosök tere) Heroes' Square (Hosök tere) free

Heroes' Square is one of Budapest's grandest landmarks. In fact, it's the largest public square in the city. Swing by this area to take a picture of the Millenary Monument, which was erected in 1896 to celebrate Hungary's 1000th anniversary.

The square and the monument are dedicated to those who lost their lives while fighting for the country's independence. At the base of the famous column (topped with the Archangel Gabriel) are statues representing seven Magyar chieftains – considered to be the founders of the Hungarian nation. Behind the column are matching colonnades with 14 statues of royalty and other important figures in Hungarian history.

Hungarian Parliament (Országház) Hungarian Parliament (Országház)

Completed in 1902, the Hungarian Parliament is one of Budapest's most famous landmarks. The Hungarian National Assembly still meets here, but visitors come mainly to take in the building's architecture (primarily Gothic Revival-style) and beautiful statues and paintings. According to many, there is no structure in Hungary that serves as a better symbol of the country's independence and commitment to democracy. 

Travelers and locals alike say this structure is a must-see for any visitor's first trip to Budapest. It not only features incredible architectural details but also stunning Danube River views and significant artifacts, such as Hungary's crown jewels. If you're interested in touring the inside, visitors suggest booking well in advance since tours – which are the only way to gain interior access – fill up fast. Photography is permitted during a tour; however, taking pictures inside the Dome Hall (where the crown jewels are located) is not allowed.

St. Stephen's Basilica (Svent István Bazilika) St. Stephen's Basilica (Svent István Bazilika) free

One of downtown Budapest's most popular sights is St. Stephen's Basilica. Featuring two clock towers and an impressive cupola, this historical church, which was dedicated to Stephen I (Hungary's founder and first king) upon completion in 1905, took more than 50 years to build. Visitors flock here to catch a glimpse of its main attraction – the Holy Right. This mummified, jewel-adorned right hand of the property's namesake rests inside an ornate golden reliquary in the church's Holy Right chapel.

Past travelers praised St. Stephen's Basilica's stunning architecture and interior, as well as the breathtaking city views from the cupola's balcony. Visitors can explore the church on their own, but for more insight about its history, reviewers recommend paying for the guided tour, which includes looks at the Holy Right chapel, the on-site treasury and the cupola.

Buda Castle (Budai vár) Buda Castle (Budai vár) free

As its name implies, Castle Hill 's main attraction is its medieval castle. Built in the 14th century to accommodate various kings, the structure now features Baroque and neo-Baroque details added during various restorations. It's also home to the Hungarian National Gallery, the Budapest History Museum and the National Széchényi Library.

Like Gellért Hill and the  Széchenyi Chain Bridge , Buda Castle boasts picturesque city panoramas, according to past visitors. However, previous travelers had mixed feelings about using the Buda Castle Funicular. Some enjoyed riding it to the top, while others bemoaned its pricey fees and suggested walking. If you are not keen on walking but want to avoid paying 1,200 forints (about $5) for a one-way fare or 1,800 forints ($7) for a round-trip ticket, consider using the No. 16 bus. Each ticket costs 350 forints (roughly $1.50) when purchased in advance; to get a ticket on board, expect to pay 450 forints (less than $2). For Budapest Card holders, rides on public transportation are covered.

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Matthias Church (Mátyás-templom) Matthias Church (Mátyás-templom) free

The neo-Gothic Matthias Church in  Castle Hill  has been around for centuries and, in many ways, its history corresponds to that of Budapest itself. Built in the 13th century, Matthias was the city's first parish church. However, it was transformed into a mosque during the 1541 Ottoman occupation and remained an Islamic place of worship until the Turkish expulsion nearly 150 years later. Today, tourists come to admire its imposing architecture, take in its historical symbolism and spend some time studying its impressive artwork.

Recent visitors said the church's architecture is striking and the informational place cards throughout the property give you a sense of its expansive history. Don't forget to check out the Ecclesiastical Art Collection, also housed inside. You can see the medieval crypt where 10th-century King Béla III and his wife Agnes are buried, as well replicas of royal jewels and other religious artifacts. And if you enjoy organs, the church's (with 7,771 pipes and 18 bells) is regularly the star of on-site concerts and shows.

Dohány Street Synagogue (Dohány utcai Zsinagóga) Dohány Street Synagogue (Dohány utcai Zsinagóga) free

Also referred to as the Great Synagogue, this place of worship is the largest synagogue in Europe and the second-largest in the world (only Temple Emanu-El in  New York City  is slightly bigger). Opened in 1859, this building features Romantic and Moorish Revival-style architecture and can accommodate up to 3,000 people.

Travelers suggest you visit for the atmosphere and to learn of the synagogue's historical significance  –  particularly its connection to the Holocaust.  In 1939, the synagogue was bombed by a Hungarian pro-Nazi party, and between 1944 and 1945, Dohány Street itself constituted the border of Budapest's Jewish ghetto. Visit the adjacent Hungarian Jewish Museum and Archives to learn about the history of Hungarian Judaism and to pay your respects at the Garden of Memory in its courtyard.

Museum of Fine Arts (Szépmuvészeti Múzeum) Museum of Fine Arts (Szépmuvészeti Múzeum)

Located in City Park by Sz é chenyi Baths and the Budapest Zoo & Botanical Garden, the Museum of Fine Arts showcases Hungarian art dating back to the Middle Ages, plus Egyptian antiquities and 13th- to 19th-century European paintings. Exhibitions feature medals, prints, drawings, wooden sculptures, altarpieces and modern art – all of which contributed to Hungarian history and art development.

Previous museumgoers heap praise on the Museum of Fine Arts, adding that the renovation it underwent until October 2018 is beautiful. Some past visitors specifically raved about the informative displays, noting that they're so well-done that you don't need an audio guide.

Thermal Baths Thermal Baths

A soak in a thermal bath is a quintessential Budapest experience. (It hasn't cultivated a reputation as the "City of Spas" for nothing.) These baths, or fürdok in Hungarian, are heated by natural thermal springs and usually include on-site massage services, as well as steam rooms.

With more than 100 thermal springs, the various baths around the city cater to different tastes – from relaxation to cures for illness – and some transform into pulsating dance clubs at night, so if you're bathing with your family, you might want to do so during the daylight hours.

Gellért Hill (Gellért-hegy) Gellért Hill (Gellért-hegy) free

Across the Danube River from the Inner City lies Gellért Hill. Measuring 771 feet high, this neighborhood is best known for its 19th-century citadel, but the area is also home to an arboretum, a church built into a cave and various statues, such as the Liberty Statue (a traveler favorite) and one of the region's namesake, Saint Gerard. Legend has it that the Italian monk was pushed off of the hill to his death in the 1000s.

On a sunny day, visitors say Gellért Hill offers jaw-dropping views of the river and downtown Budapest. Travelers also praise the neighborhood's statues but recommend learning more about their histories before arriving to supplement your visit. What's more, some caution that the walk up the hill is exhausting, but limited parking is available by the citadel for a fee. You can also take the No. 27 bus most of the way up to the Búsuló Juhász stop.

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Hungarian State Opera House (Magyar Állami Operaház) Hungarian State Opera House (Magyar Állami Operaház)

Central Pest's Hungarian State Opera House has been an institution in Budapest since its opening in 1884. Featuring a neo-Renaissance style, the opera house holds more than 1,200 seats and has a reputation for its exceptional acoustics. But the building's main draw is its opulent architecture –  inside and out.  Marble columns, gilded vaulted ceilings, an enormous bronze chandelier, and murals and frescoes depicting Greek mythological scenes provide a romantic setting.

According to recent visitors, the opera house's exterior justifies a stop, even if you don't head inside for a guided tour. If you do decide to take a tour, keep in mind that the building is currently undergoing renovations. Some past travelers bemoaned not being able to see the auditorium during their visits. 

House of Terror Museum (Terror Háza Múzeum) House of Terror Museum (Terror Háza Múzeum)

Located in the Terézváros neighborhood in Pest's District VI, the House of Terror Museum is a jarring but important museum that documents the dictatorial oppression Hungary faced during its fascist and Stalinist regimes. Once the headquarters of the State Protection Authority (similar to the Soviet Union's KGB), the building was where brutal interrogations and the torturing of countless political activists and dissidents took place throughout the 20th century. Tour the chillingly realistic prison cell replicas in the basement, and brace yourself for the powerful and moving exhibit on Hungary's post-World War II years leading up to the 1953 uprising against its Soviet-controlled government.

Recent visitors said this museum's exhibits are thought-provoking and informative. However, a few lamented the no photography policy inside. Another drawback: the Hungarian-only displays. To understand the material presented in each exhibit, you'll need to ask for handouts with English translations or pay an extra 1,500 forints (roughly $6) for an English audio guide. You can also reserve a guided tour with an English-speaking guide at least 10 days in advance for 8,000 forints (about $31).

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

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Budapest Zoo & Botanical Garden Budapest Zoo & Botanical Garden

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Fancy visiting Budapest? Here you can find all the information you need about what to see , the best Roman baths , or where to stay , as well as much much more.

Budapest Travel Guide

• General Information
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The Danube River,  a source of inspiration for many artists, used to  divide Buda and Pest , two large towns  that became a single city in 1873 , which is  currently one of Europe's most important capital cities. Enormous iron bridges join both banks. On the one side,  Buda , the formal Royal district and the most elegant residential area and, on the other side,  Pest , the commercial and financial heart of the city.

Explore the city’s historical streets and you'll discover why Budapest is called the Pearl of the Danube and why over 7 million tourists visit it every year. The Hungarian capital will fascinate you.

Budapest, the most stunning city on the Danube

The Polish writer and winner of the Prince of Asturias Award, Claudio Magris describes Budapest as the Pearl of the Danube after traveling through Europe. 

In our opinion, Budapest is pleasantly surprising. We read a lot of supposed negative aspects about the city, about the supposed rudeness of the locals, how many of the buildings need restoration, and many other interesting facts about Hungary’s capital city.

While it's true that Budapest isn’t as “fairytale” as Prague , we travelers, unlike tourists, have the capacity to find the beauty of a city behind its façades. What’s more, we were treated very kindly in Budapest, except by the metro inspectors!

Where to begin?

To make the most of your visit, we recommend you read about Budapest’s general information and the city’s top attractions . Once you have decided what you want to visit, you can plan your itinerary with our interactive map .

Generally, you'll need  three days to get a feel for the city.

Need accommodation?

If you still haven’t booked a hotel, hostel, or apartment, we recommend you visit our search engine where you'll find all kinds of accommodation with the best rates guaranteed . You can get up to 75% off if you pay directly at your hotel.

• Hotels in Budapest – Book online for the best rates guaranteed.

Thinking of also visiting Prague or Vienna?

If you want to visit other beautiful cities in central Europe, we recommend Prague and Vienna .

top activities

Danube Evening Cruise Budapest is one of the most beautiful cities by night with its dazzling attractions lit up. Take a 1-hour cruise along the Danube and enjoy breath-taking views.

Budapest Opera House Guided Tour Discover the second largest stage in Europe on this guided tour of the Hungarian State Opera House, a must-see on your trip to Budapest!

Danube River Cruise Explore Budapest from the water on a cruise along the Danube and enjoy breathtaking views of the city with pre-recorded commentary in English and free drinks.

Danube Bend Day Trip: Esztergom, Visegrád & Szentendre Explore Budapest and its surroundings with this day trip to three of the most picturesque towns on the Danube Bend: Esztergom , Visegrád and Szentendre .

Free Walking Tour of Budapest Discover the pearl of the Danube River with this free tour. You'll explore the charms of the Hungarian capital, like St. Stephen's Basilica and the Parliament.

Gellért Spa Ticket Gellért Spa is the best-known thermal bath in Budapest . Since its opening in 1918, it has been considered one of the finest in Europe . An absolute must!

Jewish Quarter Free Tour Discover the heroes of World War II with this Jewish Quarter Free Tour. Explore one of Budapest's must-see neighbourhoods  & learn about its rich history.

Mysteries and Legends of Budapest Tour Vampires and mass murderers terrorised the Hungarian capital for years. Dare to discover the darker side of Budapest with this nighttime walking tour .

Széchenyi Spa Ticket Opened in 1913, Széchenyi Bath is one of the world's most fascinating thermal baths . Relax in natural hot spring waters, saunas and outdoor swimming pools.

Budapest Great Market Hall Food Tour Discover and sample typical products of Hungarian cuisine on this Budapest food tour. Culture, architecture and gastronomy in one delicious experience!

Historic Budapest Free Tour The Historic Budapest Free Tour will take you on a journey through the most significant events of the past few centuries in this amazing cultural crossroads .

Buda Castle Free Tour Explore one of Budapest's most emblematic monuments on this free  guided tour of Buda Castle  ​and discover the secrets of the historic palace.

Gödöllö Palace Tour Learn about the mysterious life of Princess Sisi, Empress of Austria, while you visit the Gödöllö Royal Palace, her former residence.

Budapest Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tour The Budapest Hop-On Hop-Off tour is the most practical and comfortable way to explore the Pearl of the Danube. Explore the city at your own pace.

Budapest Cruise + Folk Show Step aboard this Danube river cruise , where a captivating folklore show awaits, accompanied by a delectable three-course dinner – a truly magical evening!

Budapest Guided Tour + Parliament This combo tour of Budapest + the Budapest Parliament is the ideal way to discover the city and explore one of its most emblematic and historic buildings.

Budapest Guided Tour Discover the stunning capital of Hungary  on this guided tour of Budapest. You'll visit its most popular sites such as the Castle District!

Budapest City Sightseeing Bus, Boat Ride + Guided Tour Enjoy the Hungarian capital from water and land by booking this ticket for Budapest's tourist boat and bus . You can also enjoy a walking tour of the city!

St. Stephen's Basilica Organ Concert If you’re a classical music fan, you’ll enjoy a magnificent organ concert at St. Stephen’s Basilica, one of Budapest’s most beautiful neo-Classical buildings.

Join this free night tour of Budapest  and experience Hungary's capital city , where you can explore its rich history, mysterious legends  after dark!

Free Night Tour of Buda Castle On this free night tour of the Buda Castle , we'll unveil the best-kept secrets of this magnificent Budapest fortress under the starlit sky.

Free Tour of Imperial Budapest On this free tour of imperial Budapest , you'll explore the most significant monuments of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and get to know its notorious figures.

Budapest Free Food Tour Enjoy a free tour of Hungarian cuisine and learn its culinary secrets with our immersive food tour and blend  culture , architecture , and gastronomy into one!

Buffet Dinner Cruise with Live Music Drift along the romantic Danube and admire the city’s landmarks lit up on this 7 pm cruise while you delight in a traditional Hungarian dinner and music .

Budapest Card: Top Attractions, Unlimited Public Transport & Tours The Budapest Card offers visitors unlimited journeys on public transport, free entry to numerous museums, entrance to Lukács Bath and other discounts.

Budapest Pizza & Open Bar Cruise Take an 85-minute cruise along the Danube River, savoring your favorite pizza and enjoying the open bar of beer and soft drinks. Perfect for groups of friends!

Private Tour of Budapest With our private tour, you'll have a personal guide exclusively for you and your partner, family or friends. The best way to get to know the city!

Buffet Dinner Cruise with Live Music at 10pm Drift along the romantic Danube and admire the city’s landmarks lit up on this 10 pm cruise while you delight in a traditional Hungarian dinner and music.

Guided Tour of the Palinka Museum Delve deep into Hungarian culture on this fascinating guided tour of the Palinka Museum , where you'll get to taste the country's most traditional drink.

Great Synagogue Guided Tour If you're in the capital of Hungary , you can't miss this tour of the Budapest Synagogue , the largest in Europe. Join us to learn about its fascinating history.

Puszta Day Trip with Equestrian Show Set off on a day trip to the stunning Puszta, the Great Hungarian Plain , a beautiful area of the Hungarian countryside that enchants all its visitors!

Budapest Bike Tour Explore the pearl of the Danube on wheels with this Budapest Bike Tour. Cycle past the Hungarian Parliament, Heroes' Square, the Tree of Life and much more.

Budapest Sunset Scooter Tour On this  Budapest Sunset Scooter Tour , you'll discover the charms of this city in comfort and style and watch the sunset in this beautiful European capital.

Buda Hills Hiking Route Embark on an adventure through the  trails of the Buda Hills on this scenic hiking route . See stunning viewpoints ,  monasteries , and remnants of ancient bunkers !

On this transfer to Premier Outlet Budapest, you’ll be able to find over 150 brands like Hugo Boss, Calvin Klein, Guess, and G-Star Raw at the best price.

Private Excursion from Budapest Esztergom, Visegrád, Szentendre, the Sisi Palace...  Discover Budapest's surroundings on a private excursion with a guide specialist in local culture.

Budapest Gala Concert Experience an evening of Hungarian culture, with a concert at the Danube Palace before enjoying a river cruise and delicious dinner.

Budapest Scooter Tour Climb on board a scooter & explore the city of Budapest in an exciting & original way! Discover the "Pearl of the Danube" with this private tour .

Szechenyi Spa Admission with Massage Discover the largest thermal baths in Budapest with full-day skip-the-line tickets to Széchenyi Baths and recharge your batteries with an aromatherapy massage .

Lake Balaton Full-Day Trip Set off on a full-day trip from Budapest to one of Hungary’s most popular tourist destinations: Lake Balaton and its surrounding cities.

Vienna Full-Day Trip Embark on a full day trip from Budapest to Austria and explore Vienna, its grandiose capital, considered one of Europe’s gems and a definite must.

Budapest Folk Show & Dinner Cruise at 10pm Spend an unforgettable evening in the Hungarian capital at a traditional Hungarian folklore show, followed by a dinner cruise along the elegant Danube River.

Hungarian Folk Performance Enjoy a magical evening in Budapest in an unparalleled setting where one of the best Hungarian Folk ensembles will introduce you to traditional Maygar dancing.

Budapest River Cruise + Brunch Indulge in a delicious Hungarian buffet brunch  while you admire Budapest and all its splendor from the Danube River on a 60-minute sightseeing cruise .

Join us on an eye-opening tour of Budapest's street art where we'll see everything from  huge murals to smaller local pieces throughout the city.

Your Guide to Budapest

If you're looking to visit Budapest, this guide is just what you need . With a city of more than 1.7 million inhabitants and an unintelligible language , things can be difficult.

The information and the data here have been updated in December 2022 . If you find any errors or anything which should be changed, please contact us .

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