Budapest’s captivating skyline, framed by the mighty River Danube, makes it one of Europe’s best and most irresistible cities.
Hence, it should be on your bucket list. That’s why we, in this article, will help you discover the Budapest must-see attraction that you should take advantage of on your trip to this fantastic Hungarian capital.
©focusstock
A brief introduction to the Budapest Must-See Attractions
Firstly, Hungary’s capital became one city in 1873, when Buda, on the western banks of the Danube, and Pest, on the east, merged to become the second largest city in the Austro-Hungarian Empire.
Budapest’s vast parliament building, citadel, and castle are legendary. But the true Budapest reveals itself beyond these fabulous sights.
Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is considered by UNESCO to be “one of the world’s outstanding urban landscapes. Its significant historical periods are clearly illustrated by remains dating back to Roman times. Additionally, the brutality of 40 years of the communist regime and the preceding period of fascism have left their mark on the city. Still, a commitment here feels inevitable—an ability to carry on despite the most significant challenges. We are ready to share some of the must-see Budapest attractions you will see when you visit this wonderful city.
Our list of Budapest Must-See Attractions
In this section, we will focus on the best attractions in Budapest, in our opinion, of course. So stay with us.
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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. That’s why we included it on our list of Budapest Must-See Attractions.
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, none 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.
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! Wallowing in Szechenyi Bath’s thermal pools is necessary for the City of Spas.
Note: If you want, you can check out our article on the best Budapest 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, Franz Joseph I was crowned Emperor within its walls; its lavishly decorated interior is undoubtedly fitting for 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 was a Royal palace where the Hungarian kings lived.
We recommend a visit to Budapest, which houses the National Széchényi Library, the Budapest History Museum, and the Hungarian National Gallery.
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. It is 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 is located within Városliget Park, unusual for a zoo 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, 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, were recognized as a World Heritage Site in 2002.
Opera House on the Andrássy Avenue ©benedek
St. Stephen’s Basilica
With its magnificent facade almost blocking out the sky, St. Stephen’s Basilica is 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. Its lavishly decorated interior features extraordinary mosaics, statues, and paintings.
Completed in 1905, St. Stephen’s is the most important church in the country and still bustles with life today: choir performances and classical concerts take place alongside daily religious services.
Great Synagogue
The Great Synagogue of Budapest is the second largest global synagogue, after the Great Synagogue in Jerusalem. It was built between 1854 and 1859 in a 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, the Central Market Hall, is the largest and oldest of the five indoor markets established in Budapest.
The conclusion
We admit that our list of Budapest must-see attractions is concise. However, there are many more things to do and see there, and to visit or try them all would take you a few years. So, what did we forget?
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). Budapest is undoubtedly one of the highlights of any visit to Central Europe.
In the end, we will let you talk. 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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