Top Attractions in Budapest Hungary & Video

Top Attractions in Budapest Hungary

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Buda Castle

Buda Castle, also known as the Royal Palace, is a historic palace complex situated on the Castle Hill in Budapest. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers breathtaking views of the city. The castle complex consists of several buildings, including the Royal Palace, the Hungarian National Gallery, and the Budapest History Museum.

  • Funicular Railway: Take a ride on the Buda Castle Funicular, a charming cable railway that connects the castle hill with the Adam Clark Square at the foot of the hill. Enjoy panoramic views as you ascend or descend the hill.
  • Matthias Church: Visit Matthias Church, a stunning Gothic-style church located within the Buda Castle complex. Admire its intricate architecture and beautiful interior, including the famous Matthias Church Organ.
  • Fisherman’s Bastion: Explore Fisherman’s Bastion, a terrace with seven towers that offers panoramic views of the Danube River and the Pest side of Budapest. Admire the neo-Gothic architecture and enjoy the picturesque surroundings.

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Hungarian Parliament Building

The Hungarian Parliament Building, located on the banks of the Danube River, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Budapest. It is the seat of the National Assembly of Hungary and showcases stunning Neo-Gothic architecture.

  • Guided Tours: Take a guided tour of the Hungarian Parliament Building to explore its grand interiors, including the magnificent Dome Hall, the Hungarian Crown Jewels, and the stunning staircase. Learn about Hungary’s history and political system.
  • Evening Illumination: Witness the Hungarian Parliament Building illuminated at night, creating a magical sight along the Danube River. The reflection of the lights on the water adds to the enchanting atmosphere.
  • Kossuth Square: Visit Kossuth Square, located in front of the Parliament Building, and admire the grandeur of the building from the outside. The square is also home to the Monument of the 1956 Hungarian Revolution and War of Independence.

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St. Stephen’s Basilica

St. Stephen’s Basilica is a magnificent Roman Catholic basilica named after Stephen, the first King of Hungary. It is one of the largest churches in Hungary and a popular tourist attraction in Budapest.

  • Panoramic Views: Climb to the top of St. Stephen’s Basilica for panoramic views of Budapest. The observation deck offers breathtaking vistas of the city’s skyline, including the Danube River and the Hungarian Parliament Building.
  • Holy Right Hand: Inside the basilica, you can find the Holy Right Hand, a religious relic believed to be the mummified right hand of St. Stephen. It is displayed in a glass case and attracts pilgrims from around the world.
  • Concerts: Attend a classical music concert at St. Stephen’s Basilica. The acoustics of the church make it a popular venue for musical performances, including organ concerts and choir recitals.

Hungarian State Opera House

The Hungarian State Opera House, located in central Budapest, is a stunning example of neo-Renaissance architecture. It is one of the most prestigious opera houses in Europe and hosts world-class opera and ballet performances.

  • Guided Tours: Take a guided tour of the Hungarian State Opera House to admire its opulent interiors, including the grand staircase, the auditorium with its exquisite ceiling frescoes, and the Royal Box.
  • Opera and Ballet Performances: Experience a world-class opera or ballet performance at the Hungarian State Opera House. The repertoire includes both classical and contemporary works, showcasing the talent of Hungarian and international artists.
  • Opera Shop: Visit the Opera Shop located within the opera house premises to browse a wide selection of CDs, DVDs, books, and opera-related souvenirs. It’s a perfect place to find a memento of your visit.

Budapest Hungary

Hungarian National Museum

The Hungarian National Museum is the largest museum in Hungary dedicated to the history, art, and archaeology of the country. It houses a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase Hungary’s rich cultural heritage.

  • Permanent Exhibitions: Explore the permanent exhibitions of the Hungarian National Museum, which cover various periods of Hungarian history. Highlights include the Coronation Mantle, medieval stone carvings, and archaeological finds.
  • Temporary Exhibitions: Check out the museum’s temporary exhibitions, which feature a range of topics from contemporary art to historical events. These exhibitions offer a chance to see unique and diverse displays throughout the year.
  • National Museum Garden: Take a stroll in the National Museum Garden, a peaceful oasis in the heart of Budapest. Enjoy the beautiful greenery, sculptures, and the tranquil atmosphere away from the bustling city streets.

Gellért Hill

Gellért Hill is a prominent landmark in Budapest, offering panoramic views of the city. It is named after Saint Gerard, who was thrown to his death from the hill in the 11th century.

  • Citadel: Visit the Citadel, a fortress located on the top of Gellért Hill. Originally built by the Habsburgs, it offers stunning views of Budapest and houses statues and cannons from various periods of Hungarian history.
  • Cave Church: Explore the Cave Church, also known as the Church of St. Ivan of Zelina, located within Gellért Hill. The church is built into the natural caves of the hill and features beautiful frescoes and religious artifacts.
  • Statues: Admire the statues and monuments scattered throughout Gellért Hill, including the Liberation Monument, which commemorates the Soviet liberation of Hungary during World War II.

Heroes’ Square

Heroes’ Square is a major square in Budapest, known for its iconic Millennium Monument and statues of Hungarian national heroes. It serves as a symbolic entrance to the City Park and is a popular gathering place for locals and tourists.

  • Millennium Monument: Marvel at the Millennium Monument, a towering column with statues representing Hungary’s seven chieftains and other important historical figures. The monument commemorates the 1,000th anniversary of the Hungarian conquest of the Carpathian Basin.
  • Museum of Fine Arts: Explore the Museum of Fine Arts, located on one side of Heroes’ Square. The museum houses an extensive collection of European art, including works by renowned artists such as Rembrandt, Monet, and Van Gogh.
  • Vajdahunyad Castle: Visit Vajdahunyad Castle, a stunning castle complex located adjacent to Heroes’ Square. The castle showcases various architectural styles, including Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque, and houses the Museum of Hungarian Agriculture.

Szechenyi Thermal Bath

Szechenyi Thermal Bath is one of the largest thermal bath complexes in Europe and a popular attraction in Budapest. It is located in the City Park and offers a unique bathing experience in its natural hot spring waters.

  • Indoor and Outdoor Pools: Enjoy the variety of indoor and outdoor pools at Szechenyi Thermal Bath, ranging in temperature from warm to hot. Relax in the thermal baths, try the whirlpools, or swim laps in the larger swimming pools.
  • Saunas and Steam Rooms: Indulge in the saunas and steam rooms available at the bath complex. These facilities provide a rejuvenating experience and are known for their therapeutic benefits.
  • Spa Treatments: Treat yourself to a spa treatment at Szechenyi Thermal Bath. Choose from a range of services, including massages, facials, and body wraps, to enhance your relaxation and well-being.

Great Market Hall

The Great Market Hall, also known as the Central Market Hall, is the largest and oldest indoor market in Budapest. It is a vibrant and bustling place where locals and visitors can find a wide variety of fresh produce, local products, and souvenirs.

  • Local Delicacies: Sample traditional Hungarian dishes and delicacies at the food stalls in the Great Market Hall. Try langos, goulash, sausages, and chimney cakes, among other delicious treats.
  • Fresh Produce: Browse the stalls selling fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, cheeses, and spices. The market is a great place to experience the vibrant colors and aromas of Hungarian ingredients.
  • Handicrafts and Souvenirs: Shop for unique handicrafts, textiles, ceramics, and souvenirs at the Great Market Hall. You’ll find a wide selection of traditional Hungarian products to take home as mementos.

Conclusion

Budapest, Hungary, offers a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the majestic Buda Castle to the stunning Hungarian Parliament Building, the city is filled with iconic landmarks and attractions. Whether you’re exploring the historic sites, relaxing in thermal baths, or immersing yourself in Hungarian art and cuisine, Budapest has something to offer every visitor. Make sure to visit these top attractions to fully experience the charm and beauty of this captivating city.

References

  • cityloco.net
  • hungarianparliament.com
  • ststephensbasilica.org
  • hungarianstateopera.hu
  • hnm.hu
  • gellertbath.com
  • heroes-square.com
  • szechenyibath.com
  • greatmarket-hall.com