This article will help you discover must-see attractions in Budapest you shouldn’t miss on your trip to Budapest.
Our list of gotta-to-see tourist attractions in Budapest
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Budapest Parliament
First of all, the Budapest Parliament is an icon of the Hungarian capital and one of the largest parliaments in the world.
Founded between 1884 and 1902, the seat of the National Assembly of Hungary was the most extensive building of its time. So, no wonder it has become one of the city’s main symbols. It is also one of the best-known parliament structures in Europe.
Fisherman’s Bastion
The Fishermen’s Bastion opened to the public in 1902, is a lookout located on Castle Hill in Budapest, offering spectacular city views. The terrace has seven towers representing the seven Magyar tribes that founded Hungary, and the bastion houses an equestrian statue of Stephen I.
Szechenyi Bath
While Budapest has many amazing thermal baths for you to check out, none of them are quite as famous or popular as Szechenyi. Set in a lovely Neo-Baroque building built in 1913, the extensive facilities include saunas, steam rooms, and of course, thermal pools for you to enjoy.
It is a delightful place to relax and unwind with lots of delicate decorations, such as mosaics, sculptures, and chandeliers. Additionally, there is always a tranquil feel about the place, unless you visit during one of its Saturday night pool parties, that is! Wallowing in Szechenyi Bath’s thermal pools is necessary for the’ City of Spas.
Matthias Church
Set in a stunning spot right next to the Fishermen’s Bastion, Matthias Church is one of the most beautiful buildings in the city. Its lofty spire and marvelous facade exhibit incredible Gothic features. Rebuilt in the second half of the 14th century after the Mongols destroyed the previous one, the church boasts a long and fascinating history.
Besides being used as a mosque during Ottoman times, it was here within its walls that Franz Joseph I was crowned Emperor; its lavishly decorated interior is undoubtedly fitting of such an occasion. Well worth visiting when in Budapest, Matthias Church makes for some fantastic photos and looks just as magical lit up at night.
Buda Castle
The Buda Castle is undoubtedly one of the capital’s best-known images. It sits at the top of Castle Hill and offers an impressive panoramic view over Pest and the river. Furthermore, it used to be a Royal palace, where the Hungarian kings lived.
It houses the National Széchényi Library, the Budapest History Museum, and the Hungarian National Gallery. So, we recommend a visit.
Chain bridge
One of the most picturesque and unique attractions is the Chain Bridge, which unites the cities of Buda and Pest.
The Chain Bridge is the oldest suspension bridge in Budapest. Its real name is Széchenyi, in memory of Count István Széchenyi, who helped build it, commonly known as the Chain Bridge. It was inaugurated on 20 November 1849.
Budapest Zoo & Botanical Garden
It is the oldest zoo park in Hungary and one of the oldest globally.
More impressively, it has 1,072 animal species and lies within Városliget Park. Unusual for a zoo, it is in the center of the city.
The zoo opened its doors on 9 August 1866. The park has 1–1.1 million visitors every year. The most special animals present in the zoo are the Komodo dragons.
Note: For more information, you can always check its website.
Andrássy Avenue
Andrássy Avenue is an over 2km long boulevard lined with buildings in uniform architecture and linking the City Centre with the City Park. Its beautiful Eclectic-style facilities, the Opera House, including the Millennium Underground Railway, running beneath the surface, and Heroes’ Square, located at its end, was recognized as a World Heritage Site in 2002.
Opera House on the Andrássy Avenue ©benedek
St. Stephen’s Basilica
Almost blocking out the sky with its magnificent and monumental facade, St. Stephen’s Basilica makes for a spectacular sight. Named after the first king of Hungary, the enormous Roman Catholic basilica also sports two mighty bell towers and is topped by a large dome. You can find extraordinary mosaics, statues, and paintings in its lavishly decorated interior.
Completed in 1905, St. Stephen’s is the most important church in the country and still bustles with life to this day: choir performances and classical concerts take place alongside daily religious services.
Great Synagogue
The Great Synagogue of Budapest is the second largest Synagogue globally, after the Great Synagogue in Jerusalem. It was built between 1854 and 1859 in predominantly Moorish style.
Váci Utca (Vaci street)
It is Budapest’s major thoroughfare along Andrássy Avenue. This pedestrian street is considered the heart of the tourist district and the best shopping street in Budapest.
Central Market Hall
The Great Market Hall, also known as the Central Market Hall, is the largest and oldest of the five indoor markets established in Budapest.
Coronavirus Update: Please note that some venues may be closed in line with local government advice. Stay safe and follow the local authority’s guidance to minimize the risk of virus transmission. Please check the venue’s website for the latest opening hours and information before making your journey. Ultimately, you can check the Skyscanner site for the latest COVID-19 travel updates and restrictions
Budapest’s must-see monuments and attractions – final thoughts
In addition to its many charms and tourist attractions, Budapest is renowned for its vibrant nightlife scene, which centers around the ruin bars found in the Jewish Quarter, and for its delicious cuisine (find out more by clicking here). Not to be missed out on, Budapest is undoubtedly one of the highlights of any visit to Central Europe.
In the end, we will let you do the talking. That’s why we encourage you to write down in the comments below which must-see attractions in Budapest were your favorite?
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