Buzz
What are the must-visit places when traveling to Budapest, the capital of Hungary? Explore this beautiful city and note down the captivating destinations below!
Budapest is a dream destination in Central Europe, captivating visitors with its blend of history, culture, and modernity. This stunning city is renowned for the picturesque Danube River, which connects Buda and Pest, creating a landscape straight out of a painting.
The architecture here is a perfect mix of Baroque, Neoclassical, and Art Nouveau styles, offering a feast for the eyes. As you wander through its streets, you'll encounter the timeless charm of historic buildings and romantic cafes. Join Mytour Vietnam as we explore the remarkable attractions of Hungary's capital in detail.
1. The Shoes on the Danube Bank Memorial
"The Shoes on the Danube Bank" is a deeply moving memorial for visitors, located along the Danube River in Budapest. This installation was created in 2005 to honor the victims of the Holocaust in Hungary, particularly those murdered by the Arrow Cross militiamen during World War II.
The artwork, designed by sculptor Gyula Pauer and filmmaker Can Togay, features 60 pairs of bronze shoes placed along the riverbank, facing the Danube. These shoes symbolize the footwear victims were forced to leave behind before being shot and thrown into the river. The memorial serves as a poignant reminder of the atrocities of Fascism and the brutality of war. When visiting, take a moment to reflect on the history and significance of this site, and pay your respects to the victims of the Holocaust.
2. Széchenyi Chain Bridge in Budapest
Built in the mid-19th century, Széchenyi is the first permanent bridge spanning the Danube, connecting Buda and Pest. Construction began in 1840 and was completed in 1849, named after its sponsor, Count Szécheny. The bridge features two stone lions sculpted by artist János Marschalkó, along with the Hungarian coat of arms, making it a striking landmark.
The Széchenyi Chain Bridge is an engineering marvel and was one of the longest suspension bridges in the world at the time of its construction. Today, you can walk across the bridge or admire and photograph it from vantage points like Castle Hill, Gellert Hill, or the Danube riverbank.
3. Hungarian State Opera House in Budapest
Located in the heart of Budapest, the Hungarian State Opera House captivates visitors with its enchanting Neo-Renaissance architecture. Built in the 19th century by the talented architect Miklós Ybl, the opera house boasts an impressive Neo-Classical Revival style.
Stepping inside, you'll be amazed by the opulence of the space, featuring marble columns, intricately carved floors, sparkling chandeliers, and a meticulously designed ceiling. Here, you can explore areas such as the Royal Reception Room, the Red Salon, the bar, and the grand auditorium. Additionally, you’ll have the chance to enjoy opera performances with exceptional acoustics and captivating performances.
4. The Hungarian Parliament Building in Budapest
The Hungarian Parliament Building, also known as Országház, is a stunning Neo-Gothic architectural masterpiece located on the banks of the Danube. Its façade is adorned with intricate sculptures, reliefs, and stained glass windows, depicting significant figures and events from Hungarian history. The interior is equally impressive, with vast halls, sweeping staircases, and lavishly decorated meeting rooms.
The most striking feature is the central dome, standing 96 meters tall and crowned with a golden crown. Visitors can only explore the interior through guided tours. For an external visit, consider coming in the evening to see the building beautifully illuminated.
5. The Hungarian National Museum in Budapest
Magyar Nemzeti Múzeum is the perfect destination to explore Hungary’s dynamic history, from prehistoric times to the modern era. Designed in a Neo-Classical style by architect Mihály Pollack, the museum resembles an ancient temple. Inside, you’ll be impressed by the grand staircase adorned with paintings by renowned Hungarian artists like Károly Lotz and Mór Than.
The museum is divided into two main sections: the ground floor showcases history from prehistoric times to the Avar period, while the first floor chronicles Hungary’s journey from the 9th century to the end of communist rule. You’ll also have the chance to admire Hungary’s Coronation Mantle, Roman stone carvings, and inscriptions.
6. Heroes’ Square in Budapest
Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Heroes’ Square (Hősök tere) is a must-visit destination in Budapest. This grand Neo-Classical square was built in the late 19th century to commemorate the 1000th anniversary of the Magyar settlement in the Carpathian Basin.
The centerpiece is the Millennium Monument, featuring a 36-meter-high column topped with a statue of Archangel Gabriel. Surrounding the column are statues of the seven chieftains of the Magyar tribes, along with allegorical figures representing War, Labor, Peace, and Knowledge. The square is also flanked by two colonnades, each displaying statues of Hungarian kings and heroes.
7. Buda Castle in Budapest
If you’re interested in Hungary’s royal history, Buda Castle is a must-visit destination in Budapest. Perched atop Castle Hill, the castle was originally built in the 13th century and has undergone numerous transformations, from the reign of Hungarian kings to World War II. Both the castle and its surrounding area, known as the Castle District, have been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
To reach the castle, visitors can take the Castle Hill Funicular for panoramic views of the Danube River and Pest city. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the Sandor Palace, Saint Gyorgy Square, Matthias Fountain, the Budapest History Museum, the Szechenyi National Library, Matthias Church, and the Fisherman’s Bastion.
8. Fisherman’s Bastion in Budapest
Built between 1895 and 1902 by architect Frigyes Schulek, Fisherman’s Bastion boasts a fairy-tale-like architecture. The bastion features seven towers, each representing one of the seven Magyar tribes that founded Hungary in the 9th century.
In the past, this bastion served as a crucial defensive point during the Middle Ages. Today, it’s an ideal spot for #teamMytour to enjoy breathtaking views, with spacious balconies offering sweeping vistas of the city and the Danube River. From here, you can admire the beauty of the Hungarian Parliament Building, Buda Castle, and the Chain Bridge.
Additionally, the bastion houses the Halaszbastya Restaurant, where you can relax with a drink and watch the vibrant sunset. Nearby is Matthias Church, a Gothic structure from the 14th century, famous for royal coronations and weddings.
9. Matthias Church in Budapest
One of the must-visit destinations for culture, religion, and history enthusiasts is Matthias Church. Located in the historic Buda district, the church has witnessed the city’s shifting power dynamics over 800 years, from Hungarian and Ottoman rule to Austrian influence.
The church’s architecture blends various styles, from Romanesque to Gothic and Neo-Gothic. Inside, you’ll have the chance to admire stunning frescoes by Károly Lotz, the tombs of Béla III and Agnes of Antioch, vibrant stained glass windows, and intricately carved pulpits. Matthias Church has hosted significant events, including the coronations of Hungarian kings and royal weddings. It’s also a venue for exceptional classical music concerts, offering a unique cultural experience.
10. Dohány Street Synagogue in Budapest
Inaugurated in 1859, this is the largest synagogue in Europe and the second-largest in the world. Its architecture combines Moorish and Oriental styles, featuring intricate decorations, towering domes, and vibrant stained glass windows. Inside, you’ll find stunning murals, a grand organ, and meticulously crafted Torah arks.
What makes this synagogue truly special is its history. It stands as a testament to the prosperity of Budapest’s Jewish community in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, but also endured immense suffering during World War II. Today, it symbolizes resilience and hope, with memorials and a museum honoring the history of Hungary’s Jewish community.
11. St. Stephen’s Basilica in Budapest
St. Stephen’s Basilica, or Szent István-bazilika in Hungarian, is a monumental architectural masterpiece located in Budapest’s Lipótváros district. It is the largest church in the capital and the second-largest in Hungary, surpassed only by the Esztergom Basilica.
The church was constructed over 55 years by three architects, blending Neo-Classical and Neo-Renaissance architectural styles. Its most striking feature is the 96-meter-high dome, making it one of Budapest’s tallest buildings, alongside the Hungarian Parliament.
Inside the basilica, you’ll find artworks by renowned Hungarian artists, including paintings by Mór Than, Bertalan Székely, and Károly Lotz. Additionally, the church houses a precious relic: the right hand of St. Stephen, the first king of Hungary. From the dome’s viewing terrace, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Budapest. The basilica also hosts exceptional organ and classical music concerts.
12. Gellért Hill in Budapest
If you’re looking for a place to relax and immerse yourself in nature, Gellért Hill is the perfect destination in Budapest. From its summit, you’ll be treated to sweeping views of the city, including landmarks like Buda Castle, the Hungarian Parliament, the Szechenyi Chain Bridge, and the Danube River.
Gellért Hill also boasts a rich and mysterious history. It was once a sacred site for Celtic tribes, later a hermitage for St. Ivan, and eventually the location of the Citadel fortress built in the 19th century.
This is the perfect spot to wander along winding trails, explore lush gardens, and discover mysterious caves at the hill’s base. The most famous attraction here is the Cave Church, a unique architectural structure built underground.
13. Gellért Thermal Bath in Budapest
The Gellért Thermal Bath is a renowned mineral bath complex in Budapest, offering a relaxing retreat after days of exploring the city. Located within the Gellért Hotel, the bathhouse was built in the Art Nouveau style in 1918.
The thermal waters of Gellért are rich in minerals such as calcium, magnesium, bicarbonate, alkali, chloride, sulfate, and fluoride. With temperatures ranging from 35 to 40°C, the waters provide a soothing experience and promote health recovery.
The Gellért Bath complex includes mineral pools, steam rooms, cold plunge pools, a wave pool, and a bubble bath. You can also opt for additional services like massages and special therapies.
14. Great Market Hall in Budapest
Built in 1897 with striking Neo-Classical architecture, the Great Market Hall is a hub of Hungarian culture, history, and cuisine. It offers a wide array of local products, from fresh produce and meats to traditional handicrafts and souvenirs.
The ground floor is filled with stalls selling local specialties, including paprika, Hungarian salami, pastries, and mushrooms. The second floor features souvenir shops and food stands serving local dishes like lángos, kolbice, and Hungarian wine. The basement is dedicated to products such as fish, meat, pickles, and spices.
In addition to the stalls, the Great Market Hall also hosts cooking classes for those interested in learning more about Hungarian cuisine.
15. Budavári Sikló Funicular
Budavári Sikló is a historic public transport system that takes visitors to the top of Buda Hill. Inaugurated in 1870, it is the second-oldest funicular railway in Europe. Connecting the Danube riverbank to Buda Castle Hill, it offers a short but memorable ride with stunning views of the city, the Danube River, and landmarks like Fisherman’s Bastion.
The Budavári Sikló runs on a 95-meter-long track, rising 50 meters in height, with two carriages. The funicular was rebuilt in a classic style after being completely destroyed during World War II bombings. In 1987, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
16. Ferris Wheel – Budapest Eye
Budapest Eye is an ideal destination for families to enjoy panoramic views and capture photos of Budapest’s stunning architecture. Located in Erzsébet Square, the city’s commercial hub, this Ferris wheel is one of the tallest structures in Budapest, surpassed only by St. Stephen’s Basilica and the Parliament Building.
Standing at approximately 65 meters tall, Budapest Eye offers visitors breathtaking views of the city, including the Danube River, Chain Bridge, Gellért Hill, and other iconic landmarks. Each ride lasts about 8-10 minutes, providing ample time to soak in the city’s beauty.
17. Budapest Ruin Bars
Budapest’s Ruin Bars are an integral part of the local culture. After World War II and the Cold War, many abandoned buildings were transformed into bars using recycled furniture, antiques, and graffiti art.
You can visit these Ruin Bars to experience the vibrant nightlife and learn more about Budapest’s culture and lifestyle. Some of the most famous bars include: Szimpla Kert, the most renowned ruin bar; Instant/Fogas, a party hotspot with 7 floors, 18 bars, and 2 gardens; Csendes Létterem, offering a relaxed atmosphere with drinks and snacks; Élesztő, specializing in Hungarian craft beer; and A Grund, a modern bar with a spacious garden.
Budapest, the magnificent city on the Danube River, is an ideal destination for every traveler. It combines a rich history, diverse culture, stunning architecture, and a vibrant modern lifestyle. Visiting this city allows you to delve deeper into Hungary’s heritage and significant moments in world history.
Traveling to Hungary independently is worry-free with handy tips from Mytour. Visit our Blog for more information: What is a Schengen Visa? Latest Schengen Visa Application Process, 35 Must-Visit Tourist Spots in Hungary, 15 Most Beautiful Basilicas in the World, 16 Famous Christmas Markets Loved by Millions, 20 Must-See Destinations in Eastern Europe,...
What are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to the romantic city of Budapest on the Danube River today!
