You’ve booked your trip to Budapest, Hungary, and now you’re wondering, “What are the must-see sights in Budapest?” Look no further! Budapest offers a variety of attractions for every type of traveler, from historical landmarks to cultural gems.
Explore the Buda Castle District, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to immerse yourself in Budapest’s rich history. Marvel at the stunning neoclassical architecture of St. Stephen’s Basilica or soak in the thermal baths for a rejuvenating experience.
Budapest’s Jewish Quarter and Great Synagogue offer a unique insight into the city’s Jewish heritage, while a river cruise along the Danube River provides breathtaking views of Budapest’s most iconic landmarks.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend city break or an extended vacation, Budapest’s top must-see sights should not be missed. Keep reading to discover the best things to do in Budapest and plan your perfect trip to this enchanting city.
Exploring the Historic Buda Castle District
When in Budapest, a visit to the Buda Castle District is a must for its historical significance and stunning architecture. This UNESCO World Heritage Site houses iconic landmarks such as Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion, and Matthias Church.
Located on the castle hill, Buda Castle offers a panoramic view of the city that shouldn’t be missed. (Buda Castle District, must-see sights in Budapest, Budapest tourist attractions)
Fisherman’s Bastion is a fairy-tale castle with seven turrets representing seven Magyar tribes that settled in the Carpathian Basin in 895 AD. It’s a prime location to take in the picturesque view of Pest across the Danube River. Matthias Church, a 14th-century Roman Catholic Church, showcases a unique architectural style that is a mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque. It’s a perfect example of the religious and cultural history of Hungary.
Get lost in the Buda Castle District’s charming cobblestone streets, quaint cafes, and souvenir shops. Visiting this historic district is an enriching experience that provides insight into Hungary’s past and present. (Budapest tourist attractions, must-see sights in Budapest)
If you’re a history buff or just someone who appreciates beautiful sights, a trip to the Buda Castle District is an unforgettable experience.
Admiring the Splendor of the Hungarian Parliament Building
When in Budapest, the Hungarian Parliament Building is an unmissable landmark that should be at the top of your list of must-see Budapest landmarks. It is located on the banks of the stunning Danube River, which is one of the city’s amazing sights in itself. This architectural masterpiece is considered to be one of Europe’s most beautiful buildings with its Gothic Revival style, copper domes, and intricate designs.
Visitors are captivated by the Hungarian Parliament Building’s intricate details, which are even more stunning when seen close up. Guided tours are offered, giving visitors an opportunity to learn about Hungary’s political history and the building’s past. The tours take you inside the building, giving you a chance to admire the stunning staircase, ornate halls, and spectacular chambers.
To get the most out of your visit, aim to visit during sunset when the building is illuminated, adding to its splendor. Take a stroll along the river bank and marvel at the reflections of the Hungarian Parliament Building on the water.
“The intricate details of Hungarian Parliament Building are even more stunning when seen close up.”
Guided Tours of Hungarian Parliament Building
Guided tours of the Hungarian Parliament Building are available from Monday to Saturday 8am to 5pm and Sundays 8am to 4pm. Tours last 45 minutes and are available in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, and French. It is recommended to book your tour in advance, especially during peak season.
Fast Facts
| Location | Budapest, Hungary |
|---|---|
| Architectural Style | Gothic Revival |
| Height | 96 meters |
| Construction Started | 1885 |
| Construction Completed | 1904 |
| Interesting Fact | The Hungarian Parliament Building has 691 rooms, making it one of the largest parliament buildings in the world. |
Make the most out of your visit to Budapest by experiencing the grandeur of the Hungarian Parliament Building. Its stunning architecture, intricate details, and rich history make it one of the top sights in Budapest, impressing visitors from around the world.
Discovering the Beauty of St. Stephen’s Basilica
If you’re looking for one of the best places to visit in Budapest, St. Stephen’s Basilica should definitely be on your list. This magnificent neoclassical church, named after Hungary’s first king, was completed in 1905 and is the largest church in Budapest.
The basilica stands at an impressive 96 meters tall, making it one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. The interior is just as breathtaking, with intricate frescoes, sculptures, and stained glass windows that showcase Hungary’s rich artistic heritage.
One of the highlights of St. Stephen’s Basilica is the observation deck, located at the top of the dome. Climb the 364 steps to enjoy panoramic views of Budapest’s skyline and the Danube River. The sight is simply stunning, and definitely worth the climb.
When visiting St. Stephen’s Basilica, you’ll also have the opportunity to see the mummified right hand of St. Stephen himself, which is kept in a glass case near the entrance. Legend has it that whoever touches the holy relic will be granted a wish!
Tip: Make sure to check the schedule of the church before planning your visit. St. Stephen’s Basilica is still an active place of worship, and services occur regularly throughout the week.
Soaking in the Thermal Baths of Budapest
Indulge in a unique Budapest experience and visit one of the city’s renowned Budapest thermal baths, a part of the city’s culture for centuries. The thermal waters of Budapest hold a host of physical and mental benefits, including rejuvenating skin and muscles, detoxifying the body, easing pain, and relaxing the mind.
Relax in the healing waters of the Széchenyi Thermal Bath, one of the largest and most popular thermal baths, boasting 18 pools of various temperatures within a neo-baroque palace. Or, visit the Gellért Thermal Bath, a stunning Art Nouveau building with a variety of pools, saunas, and spa facilities. Alternatively, enjoy the historic ambiance and mesmerizing rooftop views of the Danube River from the Rudas Thermal Bath, dating back to the Ottoman Empire.
| Bath | Location | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Széchenyi Thermal Bath | Állatkerti krt. 11, 1146 Hungary | 18 pools, neo-baroque palace, saunas, spa treatments |
| Gellért Thermal Bath | Kelenhegyi út 4, 1118 Hungary | Art Nouveau building, indoor/outdoor pools, thermal pools, saunas, steam rooms, wave pool |
| Rudas Thermal Bath | Döbrentei tér 9, 1013 Hungary | Ottoman-era architecture, rooftop pool with panoramic views, steam baths, sauna, pool with underwater music |
Allow yourself to unwind and recharge while enjoying the spa facilities of these magnificent Budapest attractions. Don’t miss out on this memorable and relaxing experience that is one of the best things to do in Budapest.
Exploring the Jewish Quarter and the Great Synagogue
Immerse yourself in Budapest’s rich Jewish heritage by taking a stroll through the Jewish Quarter. This area is a cultural hub of the city, offering trendy ruin bars, vibrant street art, and delicious food options.
While exploring the Quarter, be sure to visit the Great Synagogue, the largest synagogue in Europe. This stunning architectural marvel is a testament to the rich Jewish history of Budapest and offers guided tours for visitors. The synagogue houses the Hungarian Jewish Museum and memorial garden, which pays tribute to the Holocaust victims and survivors.
Don’t miss this opportunity to explore the Jewish Quarter and the Great Synagogue, two of Budapest’s top tourist attractions, and learn about the rich Jewish culture of the city.
Cruising Along the Danube River
Looking for a unique way to explore Budapest? Enjoy a scenic cruise along the Danube River Budapest and take in the stunning views of the city’s most iconic landmarks. This is an opportunity to see Budapest city tour from a different perspective and admire the beauty of the city at your leisure.
Take a relaxing and picturesque boat ride along the Danube River, one of Europe’s most beautiful waterways, while enjoying the panoramic views of the city. Admire the majestic Budapest landmarks such as the Hungarian Parliament Building, Castle Hill, and the Chain Bridge while your knowledgeable guide provides interesting historical and cultural information about the city.
The river cruise is a perfect way to explore things to do in Budapest and capture stunning photos of the city’s skyline. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or looking for a fun activity with friends or family, a Danube River cruise is a must-do experience that you shouldn’t miss on your visit to Budapest.
Discovering Heroes’ Square and City Park
As you explore the vibrant city of Budapest, don’t miss the chance to visit Heroes’ Square, an important cultural and historical landmark. The square is home to several grand statues and the Millennium Monument, which depicts Hungary’s most influential kings and national heroes.
Adjacent to Heroes’ Square is City Park, a beautiful green space that provides a perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. The park offers a wide variety of cultural institutions, including the Museum of Fine Arts and the Vajdahunyad Castle, making it an ideal destination for art and history enthusiasts.
For animal lovers, City Park also houses the Budapest Zoo and Botanical Garden, where you can see a diverse array of fauna and flora from around the world. And if you’re looking for relaxation, Széchenyi Thermal Bath, one of the most popular thermal baths in Budapest, is also located inside the park.
From the cultural landmarks to green spaces and thermal baths, Heroes’ Square and City Park are among the top must-see sights in Budapest.
Immersing in the Art and History of the Hungarian National Gallery
Uncover Hungary’s rich artistic heritage at the Hungarian National Gallery, housed in Buda Castle complex. The museum provides a fascinating insight into Hungarian art and history. Explore a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, and other works of art from renowned Hungarian artists, spanning the medieval era to contemporary times. Don’t miss the works of Mihály Munkácsy, János Mattis-Teutsch, and László Moholy-Nagy.
The museum’s architecture is as captivating as its contents, with Gothic and Renaissance elements blending seamlessly with modern designs. Gaze in awe at the dramatic stained-glass window by Miksa Róth in the ornate cupola.
Conclusion:
Now that you know the top must-see sights in Budapest, it’s time to plan your city tour. With so many Budapest tourist attractions to choose from, you can create an itinerary that suits your interests and preferences. From exploring historic monuments to soaking in thermal baths, Budapest offers an array of experiences that will leave you mesmerized. Don’t forget to visit the best places to visit in Budapest, such as St. Stephen’s Basilica, Heroes’ Square, and the Jewish Quarter. Book your Budapest city tour today and discover the enchanting beauty of this European gem.
