Budapest its on the banks of the Danube River and is a city that perfectly shifts the traveller from one world to another. The Hungarian capital which boasts a history of over 1000 years is more than just #BudapestLove: Budapest is excitement, vivid nightlife, urban spirit and cultural extravaganza as well. Budapest whether you are a history lover, food junkie or adventurer at heart Budapest has something to captivate your soul.
If you are planning a vacation in Central Europe, consider spending some time visiting the Hungarian capital city of Budapest where you will have plenty to do and see. Learn everything you need to know about the best of Budapest, from ancient castles right thorough busy markets.
Overview of the 15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions
Budapest is brimming with remarkable sites that cater to a wide array of interests. Below is a quick glimpse into the 15 top-rated attractions you'll want to add to your itinerary:
1.Buda Castle
2.Fisherman's Bastion
3.Heroes Square
4.Hungarian State Opera House
5.Széchenyi Thermal Bath
6.Matthias Church
7.St. Stephen's Basilica
8.Great Market Hall
9.Dohány Street Synagogue
10.Margaret Island
11.House of Terror Museum
12.Gellért Hill
13.Budapest Zoo & Botanical Garden
14.Vajdahunyad Castle
15.Budapest Eye
Each spot offers a unique peek into Budapest's storied past and dynamic present. Now, let's explore these attractions in more detail so you can start planning your perfect trip.
1.Buda Castle
Overlooking Castle Hill, Buda Castle is a 13th-century complex that UNESCO now classifies as a World Heritage site. It was the residence of Hungarian kings and now it is home to Hungry national gallery and Budapest history museum. The castle is astonishing because of its Baroque building and the panoramic sights visible from its courtyards.
It is filled with art and artefacts. The Hungarian National Gallery features a broad range of Hungarian art and the Budapest History Museum covers nearly all historic events that took place in the city. Make sure to see the changing of the guard that takes place every day at noon in front of Castle.
Guided tours are always an idea to get most out of your visit. Guided tours that offer a lot of information about the history and cultural value of Hungarian Castles.
2.Fisherman's Bastion
Another iconic landmark not far from Buda Castle is the Fisherman's Bastion. A late 19th-century architectural gem that simply cannot be missed as it provides some of the best views across Budapest. Seven turrets, symbolizing the seven Magyar tribes that founded Hungary in 895 stand within it and combined with its neo-Gothic and quasi-Romanesque design draws crowds of photographers.
Take time to wander its arcades and some of the bestspotwander through terraces on your way down. The building looks its most magical as the sun is setting and everything goes sort of a golden yellow colour. Located closeby is on horseback a statue of Hungary's first king Saint Stephen I.
For a memorable experience try visiting the Fisherman's Bastion in the night. The lit building against the Danube River is positively hypnotizing.
3.Heroes Square
A grand public space in Budapest, Heroes' Square pays homage to the country's most significant national leaders. The Millennium Monument stands in the middle of Budapest's Heroes' Square, surrounded by statues of the Seven Chieftains of the Magyars and other notable Hungarian figures.
The Square is bordered by two major buildings-- The Museum of Fine Arts and the Hall of Art. The institute features both extensive classical and modern day art. These museums are well worth a visit, whether you're an art lover or just want to take in some culture.
Heroes' square is also the beginning of Andrássy Avenue, a UNESCO World Heritage site with old-world manors, exclusive shops & cafés. Enter this famed boulevard to see 21st century Budapest in all its splendour.
4.Hungarian State Opera House
The Hungarian State Opera House is simply one of the many proof points that Budapest has a long, rich cultural tradition. With a construction starting in 1884, the neo-Renaissance gem quickly became famous for its exquisite architecture and top-notch performances. The interior of the opera house is lavishly decorated with frescoes, marble columns and chandeliers that will make you feel like traveling back in time.
If you get the chance, catch a performance (whether it be opera, ballet or just your standard high-quality classical concert): few venues in Melbourne do acoustics quite so well. If you are short on time, then guided tours will give access to both behind the scenes and stories of its great history plus some famous performers.
For the full experience, hotels also offer packages which include a pre-performance dinner at its surrounding restaurant. It is an elegant and cultured way to spend a night in Budapest.
5.Széchenyi Thermal Bath
The largest, and arguably most famous among Budapest thermal baths is Széchenyi Bath. The expansive City Park complex offers 18 pools (indoor and outdoor) squads closing down operations after its last game on august the inclusive. The mineral-rich healing waters treat a variety of health ailments.
You can spend an entire day soaking up the sun of the warm, soothing waters, or pamper yourself with a massage or spa treatment. The outdoor pools are particularly welcoming, being thermally controlled to be at a comfortable level all year round so you can dive in for a dip as chill sets and winter descends.
It is a grand yellow building with details of mosaics creating an actual piece of art, the bathhouse. Be sure to head over the thermal circuit, which takes you through a range of classes and saunas for probably essentially the most soothing experience.
6.Matthias Church
The Matthias Church, also known as the Coronation Church of Buda) is a beautiful building made in gothic style and has its first references back to year 1015. One of the most recognisable buildings in Budapest, Matthias Church has brightly coloured roof tiles and stylish frescoes inside.
The church is steeped in Hungary's history, with royal weddings, coronations and more. At the present day, part of it is used as a chapel and for cultural events - concerts and exhibitions are regularly held there.
Make your way up the bell tower for panoramic views of the city, or simply walk around inside to marvel at its beautiful architectural details. With Fisherman's Bastion next door it all adds to the charm and makes for an irresistible photo opportunity.
7.Stephen's Basilica
One of the largest churches in Budapest, St. Stephen's Basilica was dedicated to Hungarys first king and is one its most significant religious structures The Neoclassical temple was constructed for more than 50 years, presenting Hungarys mastery in architecture.
The interior is well-appointed with fresco, sculptures and a lofty dome inside. There is also a visually unattractive piece here: the so-called Holy Right, or mummified and displayed right hand of St. Stephen in a glass display case for public viewing as well
For a real treat, pop over to the observation deck for spectacular panoramic vistas of Budapest. Right at the basilica, a concert of organs is also given to music lovers with exceptional acoustics.
8.Great Market Hall
If you would like to experience some local life, it is recommended that you visit the Great Market Hall. Located in a grand 19th-century building, this busy market is the place to try some Hungarian specialities and buy souvenirs as well experience the atmosphere of an authentic Budapest marketplace.
Fresh fruit, meats and pasties are on the ground level, with various craft stalls and food vendors upstairs. Definitely taste some of the traditional meals like lángos, fried dough and kürtőskalács (chimney cake).
Great for shopping on the market and buying different souvenirs of this beautiful country, from silver handmade jewelry to original paprika and other spices. The Great Market Hall should be on every foodie and shopaholic's list of places to visit in Budapest.
9.Dohány Street Synagogue
Dohány Street Synagogue The largest synagogue in Europe and a symbol of the city´s proud Jewish tradition. Moorish Revival is exuberantly on display in the synagogue's casbah-like truss work, and there are so many details that theirs an overwhelming element of grandiosity.
Go on a guided tour to delve deeper into Budapest's Jewish history, and understand the importance of this beautiful synagogue. For more Jewish culture and history, continue to the adjoining Jewish Museum where exhibits feature religious artefacts as well as unconventional personal stories.
The park behind the synagogue houses the Tree of Life, a moving monument to Holocaust victims. The synagogue complex is now a memorial and testament to the strength of Budapest's Jewish community.
10.Margaret Island
Get away from the buzz of city life by visiting which is a green island in the middle of river Danube. This serene park provides run and cycling opportunities, picnicking options,swimming areas etc.
Some of the main attractions on the island include a Musical Fountain, presenting multimedial show with music and Japanese Garden where you can relax. Hire a bicycle or pedal-powered cart to tour the island on your own schedule.
In the meantime, Margaret Island houses several historical sites including ruins of a medieval monastic church and the Water Tower at Gardens of Saigon serving as an observation desk with panorama. So definitely visit it to relax and breathe some fresh air while visiting Budapest.
11.House of Terror Museum
If you are after a sobering (in the good sense of dealing directly with serious matters) yet necessary experience, go and see fr yourself at House Of Terror Museum. In a building that was once the headquarters of Hungary's secret police, this museum deals with the horrors generations have suffered through under both Nazi and later Communist regimes.
These exhibits, exhibitions that are highly provocative filled with effects and demonstrations of what happened in the very eras which consumed so much from Hungarian society. The museum shows life in Nazi Germany, from prisons cells to propaganda materials.
While the topic may be dark and tough, House of Terror Museum is a must-see for those who wish to rectify what went on in Hungary as well as how the locals up here just forge ahead. A bittersweet lesson in the stories we tell and those we forget.
12.Gellért Hill
Gellért Hill((Summit provides a most stunning panorama of Budapest. Perched with a statue of St. Gerard - for whom the hill is named - statues and bougainvillea bushes, it's a destination for tourists as well as locals who come to pray at night on their walks home in this heavily Catholic country.(AP Photo/Brennan Linsley)
Over this hill you'll find the Citadella, a fortress built in the 19th century.(Initialized by the Habsburgs), and its Liberty Statue built to remember those who died for Hungary freedom. You will be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the Delta, and especially at sunset.
Climbing Gellért Hill is a worthwhile workout, but if you want an easier way to the top, buses and taxis also go up. Just before you conquer Sugarloaf, be sure to stop and wander around the pretty gardens surrounding the mountain - it is so peaceful up here.
13.Budapest Zoo & Botanical Garden
The Budapest Zoo & Botanical Garden is a must-visit for those interested in seeing animals and plants alike. With history dating back to 1866; it breeds a large array animals, ranging from wild mammals & amphibians and exotic species to native Hungarian wildlife.
Wander the landscaped grounds to view everything from elephants and lions to penguins and reptiles. The zoo has a number of themed exhibitions, such as the Savanna Zone and Magical Hill to make guests feel immersed.
Just the botanical garden itself is great, but they also have a variety of plants and flowers from all over. Either with your family or just for a peaceful walk; you can visit one of them, The Budapest Zoo & Botanical Garden.
14.Vajdahunyad Castle
Vajdahunyad Castle is another playful mash-up of architectural styles located in City Park. Opened originally for the Millennium Exhibition along with the rest of City Park at end of 19th century, it is now a well known site on castle opinion poll everywhere.
The castle houses the Museum of Hungarian Agriculture with interesting displays detailing Hungary's agricultural past and traditions. Stroll the castle courtyards and gardens, which consist of an interesting blend of architectural styles set amidst lovely surroundings.
The lake in front of the castle becomes an ice rink during winter, so now you can skate with a fairy-tale scenery. Budapest fairy-tales most magical castle Vajdahuyad Castle is not to be missed when being active in the Hungarian capital.
15.Budapest Eye
For a panoramic overview, step aboard the Budapest Eye, for instance -- you will see it at the square in heart of city. The 65-meter (213-foot) high wheel will give panoramic views of Budapest with the Danube River and nearby landmarks in full view.
These short trips offer plenty of subject matter to snap great photos of in a 10-minute journey. While the Budapest Eye is a brilliant attraction, it's definitely at its best after dark when that vibrant shot of city lights can be set across the skating rink as below.
Whatever your reasons to visit, the amazing trip over Budapest isn't something you want to be looking back on and missing out... so BOOK TODAY!
Conclusion
The combination of the old and new make Budapest a remarkable city filled with things to do for every interest. This mesmerising capital city is packed with endless memorable experiences, from a range of historic landmarks and cultural sights to hidden gems and lively markets.
We hope that you've enjoyed this guide and it has encouraged you to visit Budapest's best tourist activities to experience the enchanting magic of this city. Both first-timers and repeat visitors will be left with lasting memories after visiting Budapest.
So are you ready to start exploring Budapest? If you would like a help in planning your ideal trip and how to get the most out of this amazing city, book a call with one of our travel experts. Safe travels!
