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Browsing Budapest
A38 Ship
The A38 Ship is among the best venues for a wide variety of contemporary Hungarian and international musical styles. Located on the Buda side of the Danube River in Southern Budapest, it is the reincarnation of a Ukrainian stone-carrier ship. Inaugurated in 2003, it now acts as a focus of Hungary's cultural life. There have been a few thousand concerts here with stars like Maceo Parker, Courtney Pine, Amon Tobin, Vienna Art Orcestra, DJ Krush, Einstürzende Neubauten, Laibach, John Cale, Tomasz Stanko, Plastic People of The Universe, and Boris Kovac.
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Ady Memorial Museum
Poetry lovers will enjoy this small museum: It is laid out just as the famous poet and his wife left it. It reveals not only the style and taste of a writer, but also furniture and finishings from the turn of the century. While you're looking around inside, it's easy to imagine that Endre Ady or his wife might return at any moment.
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Andrassy ut
Once you get past the rather built up and hectic (though still picturesque) section of Andrassy ut that leads to Oktogon, you will discover that the street suddenly changes. Huge and beautiful buildings with intricate and ornate façades are separated from the main road by grassy traffic islands - reflecting good urban planning. This street was constructed as part of the nation's millennium celebrations in 1896, along with the M1 metro, which runs beneath it. It was started in 1872 and took twelve years to complete. Since then, it has been renamed several times: first after Prime Minister Andrassy, then it changed to (believe it or not) Sztalin (i.e. Stalin) ut and after Stalin was denounced it was changed again to 'Avenue of the People's Republic'. Finally, in 1990 it changed back to Andrassy ut - which many had continued calling it all along. Enjoy a stroll all the way up to Hero's Square, from where you can catch the M1 back to Vorosmarty.
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Aquincum Museum
Budapest is so full of history that it's easy to forget the Romans were here two thousand years ago. Their settlement was known as Aquincum, and the Aquincum museum brings its history to life. A large outdoor area full of ruins gives us a clear picture of building layouts and patterns, while the museum itself houses some real treasures, including the world-famous portable water organ. This musical device clearly shows just how advanced the Romans actually were.
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Art'Otel Budapest
This is a unique hotel on the banks of the Danube in which everything from the artworks to the floor carpeting to the interior display were designed by a single artist, the world-renowned American artist Donald Sultan. The architecture of the baroque interior is also pleasant, with a café where you can lounge, read newspapers and enjoy an elegant atmosphere.
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Bajor Gizi Theatre Museum
This pretty villa up in the beautiful Buda hills of the twelfth district once belonged to the actor Gizi Bajor (1893-1951). Inside, there are souvenirs and mementos of a lifetime in theatre as well as original furniture and finishings. It's a quiet spot, which allows the imagination to run wild and picture the villa as it would have been when inhabited.
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Bartok Memorial House
A visit to the home of famous composer Bela Bartok (1881-1945) is a must for classical music fans. Amongst other things, it offers a glimpse into the composer's personal life. As well as his own belongings, there is also a collection of memorial items such as paintings and even stamps. Bartok, who spent a lot of time studying traditional folk music, did not live in a traditional house; instead the house captures the look of the early twentieth century.
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Bartók National Concert Hall
The Bartók National Concert Hall opened in 2005, and is the jewel in the crown that is the Palace of Arts, a venue that includes the National Theater and a smaller performing arts space. This beautifully designed 1,800 seat hall has been conceived to be acoustically sound, and sealed. The Concert Hall is home to the Hungarian National Philharmonic Orchestra, and regularly hosts concerts by the Budapest Festival Orchestra. The National Concert Hall has the dimensions of a Gothic cathedral, and the world class acoustics are the work of the famed acoustic designer Russell Johnson.
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Basilica of Esztergom
The largest church in Hungary, and one of the largest churches in Europe, the Basilica of Esztergom inspires awe with its massive dome and towering organ. The center of Catholicism in Hungary, the cathedral has been built, destroyed by invading armies, and rebuilt again many times since the first church was built on the spot in early 11th century by Stephen I, the first King of Hungary. The oldest parts of the existing basilica were constructed of red marble from the nearby village of Süttő, by Italian master architects from 1506 to 1507, and the basilica's walls are adorned with Italian Renaissance touches. You can climb to the upper levels of the dome for impressive views of the surrounding countryside, or descend into the large crypt, modeled on the Egyptian style and built in the 19th century.
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Bem Jozsef ter
This square lies at the foot of the Margit (Margaret) Bridge, on the Buda side. It is dominated by a statue of Jozsef Bem, a beloved Polish general during the Hungarian Revolution of 1848-49. He was fondly called Bem Apo ('Father Bem'). The square commemorates the strategic recapture of the Pilski Bridge in 1849, which was unfortunately not sufficient to win the war. Bem fled to Turkey and became governor of Aleppo after converting to Islam.
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Bible Museum
This museum contains a large collection of bibles in various languages. It traces the history of the bible through archaeological and other major discoveries. There is also a collection of Hungarian bibles, in which written Hungarian was used for the first time. The museum is also of interest to calligraphers, as the bibles are mainly hand-written and illustrated (and illuminated).
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Buda Castle Labyrinth
This maze of tunnels, which literally goes on for miles, is located beneath Castle Hill. It contains huge, cavernous rooms, originally intended as cellars and bomb shelters. Some of the tunnels can be explored without a guide. One section even features reproductions of cave paintings from around Europe. There is also a café (a cup of tea is included in the ticket price) and an underground shop. Another great thing about these tunnels is that when it is scorching hot outside, it remains cool and airy down below. A flashlight (torch) might be advisable, as several sections of the maze are almost pitch black.
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Budapest History Museum
This museum is definitely worth a visit, especially if you have been enchanted by the beauty of Budapest and you want to learn more about it. It is housed in one of the wings of the actual palace. You will find several exhibitions retelling the city's long and turbulent history as well as sections that have been renovated to show what the palace used to look like in medieval times. There is also a fine collection of statues. Do be aware that the museum has changing opening hours and days: from mid-May to mid-September, it is open every day; during the rest of the year it is closed on Tuesdays.
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Budapest Operetta Theater
A grand old theater located on Nagymezö utca, the so-called "Budapest Broadway," this building has maintained the essence of its previous name, the "Palace of Entertainment." It features operetta, a light-weight style of musical performance that originated in 19th century Budapest and Vienna. Throughout its history, the theater's main consideration has always been to cultivate the traditions of classical operetta and enrich them with modern artistic solutions. Today you can see traditional operetta, as well as highly successful productions of such musicals such as My Fair Lady, Hello, Dolly!, West Side Story, or Fiddler on the Roof.
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Budapest Puppet Theatre
Children and adults alike will enjoy the highly professional Budapest Puppet Theatre. The performers here are serious artists (puppeteers) and travel around the world performing and perfecting their art. Although the performances are only in Hungarian, the music, puppets, and skill of the puppeteers make the show highly enjoyable for everyone. This place comes highly recommended.
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Budapest Zoo & Botanical Garden
The entrance of the Budapest zoo is a beautiful Art Nouveau structure that reveals its nineteenth century splendor, having opened in 1866. The zoo is a popular institution in Hungary and this one retains its old-time atmosphere. Over fifteen years ago the zoo initiated a program of adoptions, so you can now ‘adopt’ an animal, although it is basically in name only: you do have visiting-rights, however. Hungarian actor Róbert Alföldi adopted Coco the cockatoo, while singer Ferenc Demjén was one of the first ‘parents’, adopting a monkey over a decade ago. There are also greenhouses that contain spectacular tropical plants.
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Castle District
After you've seen the Royal Palace, take a stroll northwards. The medieval street network remains unaltered and although most of the buildings have been thoroughly restored (the war damage was severe) many retain their original features. You will be able to see the remains of the Dominican monastery; note the Plague monument outside Matyas Church; walk along the castle walls on the Buda side and see the Turkish tombstones at the north-western corner. There are many places to eat out here, but you should expect to pay tourist prices.
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Castle Museum Nagyteteny
This stunning property is home to an even more stunning piece of architecture: the Szaraz-Rudnyanszky mansion. The building alone is worth a visit, being a beautifully proportioned Baroque work of art. The interior has undergone several renovations and is now considered fully restored. It is a perfect location for the exhibition of European furniture dating back to the fifteenth century (no contemporary furniture is on display). The museum is a bit of a trip, but it's well worth it.
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Central Coffeehouse
A true and tested traditional coffeehouse, directly in line with the Viennese service, ambiance and traditions. The site was restored by Imre Somody, a Hungarian businessman and philanthropist and continues to this day to be a place where you can mix and mingle with artists, actors, journalists, and regular folk. Coffee-house culture in Budapest is part and parcel of a lifestyle. Here, for instance, author Géza Csemer has for years had a place reserved for him in perpetuity. Only fellow authors could be found seated at this table. Newspapers can be found on the racks on entering, and coffee is served with the traditional small glass of bubbly soda.
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Central Market Hall
The largest covered market hall in Budapest - originally opened in 1897 - is in Fovam ter, on the Pest side, just by Szabadsdag (Liberty) bridge. The three-storey market re-opened in 1994 after extensive restoration work including a delightful roof made from Zsolnay ceramic tiles. Used extensively by locals, there are hundreds of stalls selling fruit and vegetables, groceries, meat and fish, cheeses and pretty much everything else. It is worth a visit, but bear in mind that Saturday morning is the busiest time of the week. Another equally well restored, though smaller market is in Hold utca in the fifth district, near Szabadsag ter and opposite the charming National Savings Bank building. Visit whichever is nearest to where you are for an authentic Hungarian shopping experience.
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Chain Bridge
This spectacular bridge has an equally spectacular history. It's a great place from which to take in a panorama of the city, which becomes even more impressive at night. This was the very first bridge to link the two cities of Buda and Pest. The project was started in 1839 by designer William Tierney Clark and engineer Adam Clark, and it was completed in 1849. The bridge celebrated its 150th birthday recently with a huge open-air festival.
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Children's Railway
This is a railroad run entirely by children. Well, almost - the engineer is an adult. Otherwise everything from ticket selling to ticket-punching and station management is carried out by kids. These children are members of the Hungarian Pioneers (similar to Scouts) and the running of the railroad is intended to cultivate an interest in the world of trains. The 12km route meanders through beautiful forest land; you will feel as though the city is a million miles away. To take the chairlift down, get off at the fourth stop (Citadella
The top of Gellert Hill, which rises steeply from the Danube a bit south of Buda Hill, is crowned with the Citadella, a fortress built in the 19th Century by the Hapsburgs. The strategically positioned hill-top fortress helped to maintain control of the restless city following the 1848-1849 War of Independence, and was also used as a prison and anti-aircraft battery during World War Two. The biggest draw now is the view: the Citadella provides stunning views of both Buda and Pest. Several prominent statues also grace the spot. The Freedom Monument, originally a memorial to the communist armies that liberated Hungary in World War II, is now dedicated to all those who gave their lives for Hungarian independence and freedom. Walking paths lead to the top of the hill.
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City Park
The park is dominated by the Vajdahunyad Castle - originally built for the 1896 millennium celebrations - which represents every style of Hungarian architecture. In summer, there is a lake for boating, which in winter is turned into a huge and very popular skating rink. It also houses the Museum of Agriculture and a statue of George Washington, erected to thank America for taking in so many Hungarian immigrants in the early twentieth century.
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Corinthia Grand Hotel Royal
Located in the heart of Budapest, the old Grand Hotel Royal was recently transformed from a dusty old building into one of the most modern and grand luxurious hotels in Budapest and has been fully restored to its 19th century glory. The hotel also includes the Royal Spa, which has its origins in 1886. The interior staircase is so grand that it is just worth to walk in, walk up and down, then have a relaxing coffee.
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Danube Bend
A visit to Budapest would not be complete without doing a tour of the smallish settlements along the northern Danube Bend. Stops include the small artist colony of Szentendre and its Margit Kovács Museum, then the Royal Palace at Visegrád, and the Basilica and panoramic view at Esztergom. The area's close proximity to Budapest makes it an easy day trip, but the pastoral beauty and lovely small towns are a perfect break from the hustle and bustle of Budapest. Easy transport links to the capital mean that the area can be explored easily by river cruises and guided bus tours as well as independently by car or train.
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Danubius Health Spa Resort Margitsziget
The Danubius Health Spa Resort Margitsziget was recently listed by leading travel magazine Condé Nast Traveller as one of the top 20 destination spas in the world. In contrast to the traditional Budapest bath-houses, which can be rather old-worldly in their services and ambiance, this is a modern facility that offers a broad range of spa and wellness services, including fitness facilities, a solarium, a beauty parlor, and a jacuzzi. It also offers massage and medical services. The hotel and spa is located on Budapest's Margaret Island, and is adjacent to the more stately Grand Hotel Margitsziget.
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Duna Promenade
This pleasant elevated walkway is much less crowded than Vaci utca and has magnificent views across the Danube to the Buda side. You will pass several of the city's finest hotels - all of which are equipped with spacious, sun-drenched terraces - as well as many private restaurants and cafés. You will also see the famous, ever-popular Budapest wooden chairs and benches - if you have a good look around you'll eventually find a free one. The Ecseri Market
The market is on the edge of town, but has the most vast selection of anything from trinkets to treasures. You will find a million and one items including old watches, Soviet-era memorabilia, turn-of the last century soda bottles, army uniforms, paintings or antiques. Don't forget to bargain here--it's a part of the tradition.
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Ernst Galeria
A treasure trove of books, art and antiques await you at Budapest's Ernst Galeria. This gallery specializes in famous international and Hungarian art. However, they also showcase works of Hungarian artists who have been side tracked or overshadowed. Come have a look at the various shows and exhibitions held here and revel in the intellectually and culturally stimulating environment. Ernst also offers services like evaluation, set and interior decor, research and restoration. Whether you are a serious art collector or just love ‘antique-ing', go browse and see what Hungary has to offer.
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Ernst Museum
This small museum is the perfect place to find out what's happening in the world of contemporary art. The exhibition space is clean and simple, with few distractions, and the plain walls and floors set off the work well. Sculptures can also be found amongst the paintings and other contemporary projects. You may not like all of it, but there's bound to be something you will find fascinating. This is a great place to explore.
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Ezüstponty Restaurant
This restaurant is a traditional Hungarian restaurant right in the middle of the city, although it feels more like an old wood cabin in the countryside. Situated in the hills of Buda, it provides a glimpse of the calmer side of the Hungarian capital. In the summer-time there is a vast terrace, and gypsy violins start to play traditional tunes most evenings. The restaurant has been around for over 150 years at the very same place. Austere waiters will serve you their famous fish soup with haslets, served in a small pot. Don’t forget to ask for fresh paprika. This is the real authentic Hungarian eating experience!
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Feneketlen to
'Feneketlen to' means 'Bottomless Lake' in Hungarian: the focal point of this park is a reed-rimmed lake where locals feed the ducks and pretend to catch fish. There's also a new children's playground filled with rides you wish existed when you were young. The park also offers tennis court rentals, and the 'Budai Szinpad', an open-air theatre active in the summer, where several international performances and the World Music Festival (WoMuFe) take place. The trees frame a beautiful view of the grand, yellow Baroque St. Imre Catholic church and school which overlook the park.
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Ferenc Liszt Academy of Music
The first president of the Academy of Music was none other than Ferenc Liszt himself. As well as being a place of study, it is also a performance venue. The Grand Hall (noted for its excellent acoustics) has a capacity of 1200 while the chamber hall seats around 400. The building itself is a masterpiece of art nouveau architecture (completed in 1907), but most of it's design marvels are on the inside - buy a ticket to a performance so you can sit back and enjoy both the music and the architecture.
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Ferenc Liszt Memorial Museum
This museum is the actual four-room apartment that was given to Liszt by the Hungarian government. He lived here every winter for six years until 1886 (the year of his death). Despite his preference for simplicity, the government provided him with all the luxuries of the day, which make for interesting viewing. The building and its furnishings give us an interesting glimpse into the composer's life and times.
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Fisherman's Bastion
No one seems to know why this is so named - it has certainly never been called on to defend anything. The stories say that in the old days this was where the fishermen defended Castle Hill from. It stands behind Matyas Church, overlooking the river, and was built around 1900 by the same person who was responsible for the reconstruction of the church. The climb is worth it for the views. It makes for some of the finest photo opportunities in all of Budapest. You can walk down the hill through the park from here, which is worth doing as it means you will arrive at the small flat area immediately above the entrance to the tunnel before continuing your descent.
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Former Jewish Ghetto
Here, there are seven courtyards between two streets, and before the war, they were buzzing with small shops and people plying every imaginable trade. The area is located just behind the Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace
The Hotel Four Seasons Gresham Palace would have you think that you were transposed into the set of a slick Hollywood film. Built in 1906, the Art Nouveau-style building overlooks the Danube and the famed Chain Bridge. Originally built in the early part of the last century as the offices of a British insurance company, it was later transformed into one of Hungary's most luxurious residences. Since the reconstruction by Four Seasons, the building has now regained its age-old glory. The entrance hall is awe-inspiring and airy, with famous Zsolnay tiles adorning the vast area. Flowers and pleasing smells are abound in this hotel, and thoughtful touches and excellent service are the order of the day here.
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Franciscan Church
This church is famous for several reasons. It is very old (or at least the original, built in circa 1255, is old) and it has changed hands several times. The Turks set it ablaze in 1526 but the Franciscans tirelessly rebuilt it. This was convenient for the Turks, who decided not to burn it a second time, but instead took it over and used it as a mosque. The present design emerged in 1743, when the interior was being revamped (like so much in the city) for the millennial celebrations of 1896. Franz Liszt played concerts here and one of the pews is said to be the one he habitually chose to occupy.
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Freedom Square
This large square is home to a tall obelisk with a star on top: the monument to the Soviet Union's liberation of Budapest near the end of the Second World War. It is the only remaining memorial to the Soviet Union in the city (the last statue of Lenin was pulled down in 1989). In an ironic twist, the United States Embassy stands right nearby, occupying a Viennese-style building.
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French Institute
Located on the banks of the Danube in Buda, the French Institute is a vibrant site which programs a host of cultural events, including music, dance, and literary conferences. The site itself includes a bookstore, a media center and a café. The institute hosts visual arts exhibitions, film projections, dance performances or concerts.
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Funicular
The funicular is definitely the easiest way to get up to the top of Castle Hill. Built in 1870, the two cars travel up and down every day from morning until night. The carriages are lovingly maintained, and although modern, have an antique look and design. The stations are also interesting - check out the massive wheel, which operates the system at the top of the terminal. Please note that the funicular is closed for maintenance on Monday of every even-numbered week.
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Galeria Centralis
If you're curious about what life was like in Hungary (or in any of the neighbouring countries) during Communism, then this is the place to visit. The exhibits (mainly photography) change fairly regularly and they offer an interesting perspective on everything from daily life to dealing with documents and officialdom. You can also see video footage and exhibits from around the region. Admission is free - so not only is this a great find, but it's also a bargain.
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Gellert Baths
These famous baths are adjacent to the equally famous Hotel Gellert. The interior is an Art Deco masterpiece, and just about every type of bath - hot, cold, therapeutic, etc. - that you can think of is on available. Believe it or not, the wave pool opened in 1927, followed seven years later by the bubble pool. Bathing here has been compared to going swimming in a museum or a church.
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Gellert Statue
If you walk down the hill from the Citadella towards Erzsebet Hid (Elizabeth Bridge) you will come across this statue of St. Gellert, an eleventh-century martyr. It is located in a pleasant spot with an artificial waterfall. The monument stands some ten meters high and was built in 1904. The surrounding area is an ideal place to sit for a while and enjoy the view. Pack a picnic lunch, stroll, and/or just relax into history.
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Gerbeaud Coffeehouse and Confectionary
This landmark Budapest café is a must-see. The interior is gorgeous, done up in turn-of-the-twentieth-century Austro-Hungarian opulence. Among other decorative items is the piano that was intended for use on board the Titanic (it failed to make it onboard on time). Enjoy the wide variety of beautiful cakes and pastries at hand. They also make their own chocolate, available in simple bars. The coffee is good. Since Gerbeaud is so popular it is a good idea to ask for your bill at the same time as placing your order.
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Gödöllo-Grassalkovich Castle
A baroque castle built in the mid-18th century, Gödöllo-Grassalkovich Castle will always be associated with Queen Elizabeth, wife of Austro-Hungarian Emperor Franz Joseph. Queen Elizabeth, an advocate of Hungarian autonomy, was much loved by the Hungarian populace and was known affectionately as "Sisi." The castle was originally built as a home for Count Anton Grassalkovich, but was later given to the Habsburg royal family who, during the reign of Franz Joseph and his Queen, transformed it into a graceful, sprawling pleasure palace sporting its own theater and chapel. The castle is situated in the town of Gödöllo, about 20 miles east of Budapest.
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Goethe Institute
Here you can find German language classes, art exhibitions and prose readings. They also sponsor films, dance and theatre performances and cultural programs at other venues around town. It is admirably well meshed with the Hungarian cultural scene, as many Magyar artists live and work in Germany, and vice-versa. The Eckermann cafe on the ground floor has free internet access, too (see listing). Pick up their listings brochure just inside the door.
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Golden Eagle Pharmacy Museum
This is a fascinating little museum that is well worth a look. It shows how the modern pharmacy developed from the study of alchemy, as well as actual counter layouts and shelf displays from around a century ago. If you like unusual and interesting little bottles, containers and other such things, then this is the museum for you. Some of the working pharmacies in Budapest are also beautiful and fairly unchanged in the last century - why not pop in and take a look? If you're someone who thinks they don't like museums, this one may well suit you, as it is small and unique. It makes a very nice break from the bustle of Castle Hill.
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Gozsdu Udvar
This unique series of interconnected courtyards and buildings stretching between Kiraly and Dob streets came within a hair's breadth of being demolished. This would have been an act of the utmost stupidity, as anyone strolling the now-empty passageways would agree. It once boasted apartments and many artisans' workshops and small retailers.
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Grand Boulevards
These five roads are all attached and form a semicircle (stopped by the river). The semicircle goes from the Margaret Bridge all the way around to the Petofi bridge (all in all its over 4 km long). The section near Margaret bridge is of the most interest: it is here that most locals come to shop (there are hundreds of small stores and boutiques, with much lower prices than in the tourist areas). Local people refer to these roads collectively as "the korut". Kor is circle or ring, ut is street or road.
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Great Synagogue
Still used by the Jewish community, this is the second largest synagogue in Europe. An imposing building notably using Byzantine and Moorish motifs, the 19th century construction is vast on the interior, and decorated by ornate designs. The restoration of the Synagogue was funded by American actor Tony Curtis, who is of Hungarian origin.
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Gundel Restaurant
The Gundel restaurant is indeed a world-famous restaurant, the brainchild of New York's famed restaurateur, George Lang. Reopened in 1992 in partnership with Ronald Lauder (son of Estée Lauder), the pair re-created the splendor of this internationally recognized restaurant that was originally founded in 1894. The restaurant, located adjacent to the famed Heroes Square, City Park and the Museum of Fine Arts, has an old-school charm. Nineteenth century paintings adorn the walls, and a stunning floral centerpiece makes the room's elegance shine.
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György Ráth Museum
This small museum offers you the chance to visit one of the beautiful villas on this street. Unfortunately, the inside has been completely remodeled to display the personal collection of Rath Gyorgy but it's definitely worth stepping into. Rath Gyorgy was the first director of the Fine Arts museum and, like many in his day, he had a passion for Japanese and Chinese objects. These items are clearly displayed inside the building that used to be his home. Guides are available in English, German, Hungarian and--believe it or not--Mongolian.
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Heroes' Square
This imposing square was built for the 1896 millennium celebrations. It is dominated by the Archangel Gabriel who is surrounded by seven statues representing the chiefs of the seven Magyar tribes who settled in this area (supposedly in AD 896). The large open space is dedicated to the Hungarian war memorial and attracts tourists, skateboarders and inline skaters in their dozens.
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Holocaust Memorial Center
The Holocaust Memorial Center incorporates an old synagogue, exhibit halls and documentation archives. It was opened on the eve of the 60th anniversary of the start of the Holocaust in Hungary. Through its temporary and permanent exhibitions, the Memorial endeavors to enlighten the public about the Holocaust in Hungary. Inscribed on the Memorial Wall are the names of 60,000 of Hungary's approximately 600,000 victims of the Holocaust.
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House of Terror Museum
This museum is a memorial to the victims of the regimes of terror who ruled over Hungary. The museum, which was opened in 2002, attempts to depict life under the communist dictatorship, with a section also dedicated to the period under fascism. The building itself was a prison used by the fascist Arrow Cross, and it was subsequently used by the communist State Security Police until 1956. Hundreds, perhaps thousands, of Hungarians were tortured in this building. One of the most modern museums in Hungary, the institution that runs it holds conferences and curates temporary exhibitions.
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Hungarian Agricultural Museum
If you've been wondering what's inside the big castle in City Park, now you know. The building alone is worth a visit: it's stunning. And being located in City Park, away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre, means it's quiet and peaceful. Inside, you will find the largest agricultural museum in all of Europe, with historical displays as well as contemporary exhibits. Admission is HUF 200 and they offer guided tours in English as well as German and Hungarian. The museum closes an hour earlier from mid November to April.
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Hungarian Athletics and Sports Museum
Budapest boasts such a wide range of museums, so why not a sports museum too? Inside you'll find a collection of film footage of famous performances, actual medals, lots of photos and other memorabilia from Hungary's sporting glory days. There is also a room dedicated to Alfred Hajos, Hungary's first-ever Olympic champion (at the first modern games in Athens in 1896). Not only did he win gold, he was also an architect and designer. A swimming pool complex is also named after him. He also personally designed another sports complex.
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Hungarian Museum of Trade and Tourism
This is an interesting museum featuring displays of actual room layouts from turn-of-the-century cafés, as well as from restaurant dining rooms. There's even a bedroom ensemble from the famous Gellert Hotel, as it would have looked in 1918. This museum may well present the look and feel of Budapest a hundred years ago better than any other. Once again, this is the kind of museum that makes you glad you stopped in. It's all fun to look at, and it's in a small space that needs only twenty minutes to do it justice.
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Hungarian National Gallery
A large section of the royal palace is dedicated to this gallery. Almost the entire history of Hungarian art is on display here, with the earliest pieces dating back to the tenth century - giving you a thousand years or so to work your way through. Viewing the inside of the castle is interesting in itself. Guided tours - taking in the crypt of the Hapsburg Palatine - are also available.
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Hungarian National Museum
This museum's architecture alone warrants a stop, but it also played a major role in Hungary's history: Petofi recited his famous 'national song' from the steps here in 1848; there is a plaque to commemorate this famous event. The inside of the museum is also stunning, with lavish use of marble and ceremonial architecture. The displays give a thorough account of the history of the Hungarian nation.
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Hungarian Natural History Museum
This building is made up of two architectural styles: a neo-classical façade and a modern, spacious interior. It used to be a riding school for the military academy but was recently converted for use as a museum. Exhibits depict the history of mankind in general but also specifically of the Carpathian basin. Children of all ages will love it, especially the life-size model of a woolly mammoth.
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Hungarian Open Air Museum
An open-air museum that provides an ethnographic portrait of how the Hungarians lived from the 18th to the 20th centuries. The interest in Hungarian village dwellings and lifestyles came about during the 18th century in western parts of Europe. It was the period when ethnography was born, and a heightened interest in the national cultures, origins and identities of different peoples developed. People suddenly became interested in rural life, national architectures and peasant houses and lifestyles.
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Hungarian Parliament
This building was constructed at a time when Hungary was three times the size it is now; it became smaller as a result of having been shared out after the First World War, when Hungary was on the losing side. Today, the government is housed in only a small portion of the building. The inspiration for this building is said to have been the Palace of Westminster in London. Like so much along the Pest bank of the Danube, the best views are actually from across the river (especially from Batthyany ter). Guided tours are available when parliament is not in session (go to Gate X to the right of the main entrance).
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Hungarian Railway Museum
This museum documents the history of the Hungarian National Railway in a very concrete way--with a collection of fifty beautifully restored classic railway engines, as well as historic dining cars and other gems from the golden age of railway travel. Highlights include a steam engine built in 1870, the famous Árpád rail car, which could make the distance from Budapest to Vienna in just under three hours, and an antique teak dining car from the glory days of the legendary Orient Express. You can even try your hand at driving some of the engines, and a locomotive simulator allows you to experience the thrill of handling a train at full steam. From April to the end of October, an antique shuttle train conveniently operates between Nyugati station and the museum.
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Hungarian State Opera House
Famous Hungarian architect Miklos Ybl completed this building in 1884. Its style is very neo-Renaissance with a wildly exotic interior featuring cherubs, marble, gilt and frescoes. A 45-minute tour of the building in most major languages can be arranged for HUF900. These tend to start at 3pm or 4pm; go to the door on the right of the building, beside the sphinx. Tickets to see the opera here are extremely inexpensive.
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János Hill
Janos Hegy is the city's highest hill. It is 527m high and offers wonderful views, especially from the tower at the top. This Neo-Romanesque lookout tower (a project by Schulek Frigyes) was finished in 1910. From the top of the hill, you can take the Jewish Museum
After visiting the adjacent synagogue, you will probably want to learn a little more about the history of Jews in Hungary. This popular museum traces their history from the early days up until modern times, with special emphasis placed on the tragic events of the Second World War. The Holocaust Memorial Room is also located inside. There is also a large collection of historical ceremonial items on display, collected from across Europe.
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Judit Virág Gallery
In Hungary, many private art galleries also function as auction houses. Like this one, some even put on non-sale exhibitions to compete with publicly funded art galleries. Judit Virág and her husband István Törö established what was originally the Müterem Gallery, later changed to Judit Virág Gallery. Virág, the charismatic head of this gallery, holds two well attended public auctions per year. You can find the works of 19th- and 20th-century Hungarian artists here, and the gallery regularly produces record-setting prices for artists.
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Kacsa Restaurant
This restaurant, situated along the Danube River, is a favorite among the foreign ministry folk, as the ministry is close by. Áron Rozsnyai, who runs the restaurant with gusto, is more of a theatrical magician than a restaurant owner. The dining experience is highly choreographed, and the mystery of what you are about to eat revealed with a flourish from under large silver tops. A truly traditional restaurant, it has been in operation for over 160 years now. Tried and tested!
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Karolyi Garden
If you're strolling around Pest and you start to feel a little claustrophobic as you're walking through its narrow streets and canyon-like passages, take a break in the Karolyi Garden. This is one of the only patches of green to be found in this area. While you're here, take a look at the historical townhouses that surround it. The park is free of dogs and has an enclosed playground for children. If you're hungry, grab the makings of a picnic at the little store on the corner and enjoy it in the park. This is an excellent place to observe Hungarians going about their daily lives, as this is a relatively tourist-free spot.
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Kassak Museum
This small museum is dedicated to displaying the life and work of Lajos Kossak, a talented and fiery avant-garde artist, writer and poet. He firmly believed in the power of the working class and lived--through choice--in a fairly rough workers' area of Budapest. The museum displays most of his work.
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Keleti (Eastern) Railway Station
If you arrive in Hungary by train, Keleti station may give you your first taste of Hungary: most of the international trains arrive and depart from here. The station has a grandness and elegance, albeit a bit faded, that represents the diverse architectural and cultural facets of Budapest quite well. Fronted by two statues of renowned British engineers instrumental in the development of steam railway travel, James Watt and George Stephenson, the building was designed by two Hungarian architects, Gyula Rochlitz and János Feketeházy, and opened in 1884. The top of the facade also features a statue of a woman with two bearded men, each riding a hippocampus, a fantastical half-horse, half-fish creature from Greek mythology. The station's cafeteria is right out of the 19th century as well: high ceilings and ornate, gold-leaf moldings give the place an atmosphere of Hapsburg sophistication.
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Kieselbach Gallery and Auction House
The Kieselbach Gallery and Auction House also puts on exhibitions of specific artists and presents works from private collections. The gallery is concentrated on 19th and 20th century paintings, but has recently branched out into photography and a limited amount of contemporary works. The gallery has one important auction per season, and also produces thematic books.
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Király Thermal Baths
This is one of the few remaining Turkish baths in Budapest. Built in 1565 by the Pasha of Buda, it remains popular to this day. The Turks were so concerned that they might not be able to use the hot baths if the city was besieged that they had this one constructed within the castle walls. They piped the water in over a considerable distance, and today the building stands as a magnificent testament to their ingenuity. The four baths range in temperature from a pleasing 26 degrees centigrade right up to an endurance-testing 40 degrees centigrade. Please note that there are separate days for men (Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays) and women (Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays).
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Kiscelli Museum-Municipal Gallery
The building itself has had a long and varied history. It was presented to the city as a gift in 1935. Today, it houses a wide-ranging and rather eclectic collection. The exterior of the building is in beautiful baroque style, while the interior has been renovated with tasteful simplicity and the emphasis has been placed on the exhibits. These range from an old printing press where you can get a personal copy of the revolutionary 'Arise Hungarians!' to more contemporary paintings and turn-of-the-century furniture displays.
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Kodály Memorial Museum
Zoltan Kodaly was a contemporary of Bartok; in fact, they both studied Hungarian folk music together, travelling throughout the country. The two men made some 16,000 recordings (on wax cylinders) of peasant and folk music. Kodaly's apartment is an authentic and largely unaltered testament to his work. It contains period furniture as well as folk objects, manuscripts and items from his personal collection.
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Kogart Gallery
The building that houses the Kogart House is historic in Budapest's cultural world, having been the place where progressive artists of the former system gathered. Philanthropist and businessman Gábor Kovács, who amassed a collection of 19th and 20th century paintings after the fall of Communism, opened it up to the public when he founded and renovated this space. Today, the gallery programs exhibitions of contemporary artists from Hungary and Europe.
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Lake Balaton
Lake Balaton is the main summer playground for Hungarians and tourists alike. It is a place for swimming, sailing or windsurfing. This is the largest lake in Europe, measuring 80 kilometers wide. Horse riding and fishing are also popular in summer months. More recently, numerous modern spas or resorts have been developed, making the lake an off-season destination as well.
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Liszt Ferenc Square
Liszt Ferenc Square is a popular summer hangout, known for its many restaurants, pubs and even a few dance venues. Its popularity is also due the fact that it is a comfortable and convenient pedestrian street that is also very central. It is a good stopping ground for a drink or a bite before heading off on another adventure. Some notable places on in the vicinity include the retro restaurant Menza, and the most famous Ferenc Liszt Academy of Music.
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Ludwig Museum
The entire collection here has been recently acquired: It was a donation from Peter Ludwig (hence the name) in 1989. The museum was recently moved to its current location in the Palace of Arts. There are some big names on display although much of the work here is rather uninspired (Picasso's Matador and Nude is here, but it is a work that has attracted much derision). There is also a section devoted to Pop Art and a new collection of modern Hungarian work. Many people adore this museum and return again and again.
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Margaret Island
Despite its central location, Margaret Island is extremely peaceful. In summer, it is popular with the locals who come here to relax. Rent a bicycle, jog, swim in one of two pools, throw a Frisbee or just stroll around. This was originally a religious centre. The ruins of St Margaret's Dominican nunnery are on the east side near the ruins of a Franciscan church. The water tower is a listed building. A very fine lunch can be had in the Ramada Grand Hotel at the north-east end of the island.
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Margit Kovács Museum
This wonderful little gem of a museum features the works of Hungary's most renowned ceramic artist, Margit Kovács. Her works describe the breadth of peasant life in ceramic form. Margit Kovács (1902-1977) was originally from Győr, but studied in Vienna, Münich, Paris and Sevres. She is known for depicting religious life, reliefs, figures from folk tales and ornamented jugs.
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Matthias Church
There has been a church here since the thirteenth century, even though the Turks converted many religious buildings into mosques. Although it was badly damaged in the last war, it was restored (mainly rebuilt) in the sixties. An original fourteenth-century Gothic portal survives on the south side of the church. The interior is a riot of colour and the crypt can be visited. Organ concerts - which are well worth attending - are often held here so it would be an idea to check for more information in a local events guide on your arrival.
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Millenáris Park
Created on the grounds of the old Ganz Electrical Factory, this park is a venue for music and other performances, as well as exhibitions. Playgrounds, cafe's and nice picnic spots make it an appealing spot to bring the family. The Palace of Wonders within the park is one of those spots where kids beg to be taken--an engaging, hands-on science museum that gets kids' creative juices flowing. An interactive aspect to almost all of the exhibits gets kids involved with scientific principles.
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Moszkva ter
This busy and bustling square is an important transport hub and a good location to become familiar with. The red metro line (line 2) passes through here on its way to Deli station, the Castle Hill bus starts and ends here, and it's also the starting point for catching transport up into the beautiful green Buda hills. The name means Moscow square. The square is also like a small bazaar, with every type of activity going on. There is a large shopping center right next to it called Mammut.
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Municipal Cemetery
This cemetery, located about 10km from the center of Pest towards the airport, has a special place in the hearts of Hungarians, as it was here that the revolutionary leaders of the 1956 uprising were buried in a mass grave after execution. After the fall of Communism, they were given a ceremonial funeral and re-buried. Several monuments were set up to them here in the cemetery.
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Museum of Applied Arts
Following in the footsteps of its sister institutions in London and Vienna, the Museum of Applied Arts in Budapest was the third of its kind to be established Europe in 1896. The collection was first founded in 1872 when the Hungarian Parliament purchased industrial objects for the World Exhibition in Vienna. The large collection of artifacts is housed in a large building with Oriental design elements. Although the building suffered significant damage during World War II, the building was restored and today features a expansive permanent collection of Hungarian arts and crafts. Specifically, the museum is home to over 4,000 items in its furniture collection, 10,000 pieces in its fine metal work collection, and an impressive 25,000 pieces in the ceramics and glassware collection. Temporary exhibits often showcase other Hungarian art treasures. Visit the stunning inner courtyard with its glazed roof and ornate cloisters and arcades.
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Museum of Ethnography
A view of the building in which this museum is housed makes a visit more than worthwhile: it is an architectural masterpiece - both inside and out. The Grand Entrance Hall will take your breath away with its arches, columns and staircases, all decorated with copious amounts of gold. The exhibits themselves provide an interesting and educational overview of the Hungarian people: regional folk costumes can be seen, as well as depictions of daily life in the last century.
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Museum of Fine Arts
This spectacular and renovated building houses a museum that's massive in scale (slightly intimidating in fact), with a wide range of exhibits. It's noted for its Spanish collection, most of which comes from the famous Count Esterhazy who picked up the pieces at bargain prices. Everything from El Greco to Goya is here. There is also an interesting display of Roman vases and artifacts (lots of huge toga-holding safety pins) as well as many other works.
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National Bank of Hungary Visitor Centre
This small bank note and coin collection is housed in the National Bank of Hungary. The Visitor Centre, which opened in 2004, hosts exhibits focused on financial matters, the history of currency, and the role of the National Bank itself. Included at this free exhibit are interesting displays of Hungarian coins and notes and the history behind their design and use.
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National Dance Theatre
This building, originally a church founded by King Bela IV in the 13th century, was demolished in 1686 and rebuilt in 1725 by the Carmelite Order as a Baroque church. It is this building that was converted into a theater in 1786. Beethoven played a concert here in 1800, an event commemorated by a plaque. Although badly damaged in the war, it was restored in 1978.
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National Theater
Part of Millennium City, an extensive development project on the Pest bank of the Danube near the city's southern edge, the National Theater is monumental in size and impressively state-of-the art. The theater offers mostly Hungarian produced dramas and musicals, but is also usually the venue for major international productions when they come to Budapest. The theater opened in 2002 after a series of bureaucratic and political snags delayed its construction. The nearby Palace of Arts, with a concert hall, art museum, and its own theater, make the Millennium City area a modern, complete cultural arts complex.
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New York Coffeehouse
Known for its stunning interior and its history as the literary social gathering place, Café New York was originally established in 1894 and has since been completely renovated and restored with the arrival of a hotel in the New York Palace in 2006. As one of the most popular of Budapest's signature cafés, the legendary New York Café was home to all of Hungary's most notable literary figures. The Hungarian coffeehouse culture thrived long before it did in other renowned cafe cities such as Paris or Vienna. As such, the coffeehouses were not simply a place to grab a cup of coffee, but were rather social institutions bustling with writers, actors, artists, and students. The heyday of Budapest's grand cafés began to slowly dwindle throughout the 20th century, yet the prominent Café New York lived on. While the coffeehouse may not embody the same spirit it once had, the building's eclectic architecture and cultural significance make it worth a visit, even though today the cafe is now part of the lavish Boscolo Luxury Hotel.
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Normafa
This hopping off point for walks into the Buda hills has some stunning and impressive views. The parks that run along the side of the road are filled with dog walkers, families having picnics, joggers, cyclists and so on. It's also where you can catch the Children's Railway or walk to the chair lift at Janos Hegy. There are several pleasant cafes with sitting areas as well. All in all you can't go wrong up here. In the heat of summer it's always a cool retreat.
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Nyugati (Western) Railway Station
This is a beautiful beaux-arts train station, befitting a grand European capital. It was designed by the Eiffel firm (the architect was August de Serres), and the relationship to the famous tower is evident in the gracious style of the cast-iron frame and ample windows. The station was finished in 1877 and nearly demolished in the twentieth century, but ended up being completely renovated. Nowadays, it is used as a point of departure for trains heading eastwards.
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Old Jewish Quarter
This area of the city is largely uncluttered by tourists. The Great Synagogue (the starting point to touring the quarter) does get quite busy but once you venture beyond it into the crumbling back streets you may well find yourself completely alone. The area has a feeling of complete authenticity and in many sections virtually nothing has changed since the closing days of the Second World War. Here and there you will see closed and abandoned synagogues, while several streets still have operational Jewish grocers and religious supply shops. The Jewish community seems to be drifting back to this section of the city. To learn more about the tragic history of the area, stop in at the museum in the Great Synagogue.
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Palatinus Baths and Beach
This huge swimming pool complex also features hot baths and lots of open space. It is rare in that it offers nude sunbathing in the heart of the city. There is both a women-only and a mixed area. There is also an exhilarating wave pool, as well as lots of other facilities such as a children's playground and restaurant. This is a great place to stop off for a break after a walk around the island. Originally opened in the early 1920's, it has since expanded to what it is today 30,000 square meters of park and pool area. The large outdoor pool is approximately 100m long.
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Petnehazy Horse Riding Ranch
This large and spacious horse-riding centre offers instruction for adults and children. They have a nice building, perfect for parties and special events. They can also organise cart-rides and they have Goulash Parties every Thursday at 8p. They also have conference facilities. If you want to go riding while in Budapest, this is a good choice.
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Petofi Museum of Literature
This is the place that has collected all of the available books (of a literary nature) written in Hungarian. As well as the literature, there is also a collection of manuscripts and other related items, a tape library and a video collection. It is a brand new facility. The goal of collecting every item written in Hungarian took some doing, but the museum believes they have succeeded. In doing so, they are documenting the evolution and changes in one of Europe's most unique languages.
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Planetarium
A perfect place to stop while traveling through Budapest with children, the Planetarium is located on the southwest end of People's Park (Nepliget) in Budapest. Its soaring dome hosts a variety of entertainment shows from laser shows accompanied with music to 3-D films and cartoons.
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Postage Stamp Museum
Stamp collectors will be in awe of the fact that this museum has every single Hungarian first edition stamp as well as all their variations (every philatelist's dream). They also have stamps from around the world, all neatly displayed behind glass and at easy viewing level. Bring your magnifying glass.
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Postal Museum
This small, cute museum is not to be confused with the Postage Stamp museum. Instead, this exhibit features two post offices as they looked at the turn of the century, along with some old equipment including delivery vehicles. It is definite must-see for those interested in the postal system. It is also a very quaint and original little bit of historical fun.
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Ráday Utca
The heart of the fashionable ninth district, Ráday Utca is a pleasant street bursting with trendy boutiques, cutting-edge art galleries, and dozens of pleasant cafes and restaurants, many with outdoor seating. If you are looking for Budapest's bohemian scene, you will find it here. The street is home to some of Budapest's most innovative restaurants, and all types of cuisine are on offer.
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Raoul Wallenberg Monument
This monument in a residential area remembers the Swedish diplomat Raoul Wallenberg who undertook a personal humanitarian action that rescued thousands of Jews from certain death during the Holocaust. Wallenberg, from a prominent Swedish family, issued Hungarian Jews protective passports from the Swedish embassy. The documents identified the holders as Swedish nationals that were awaiting passage. Following Wallenberg, numerous diplomats emulated his technique. Raoul Wallenberg later disappeared and is thought to have died in the Soviet Union, although the circumstances to this day remain a mystery.
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River Danube
The Danube - Europe's most celebrated river - runs majestically through the centre of Budapest. The city has taken full advantage of this and it now offers some of the finest panoramas to be found anywhere on the continent. Starting far away in Germany (where the Breg and Brigach rivers meet), the Danube runs some 2859 kilometres before spilling into the Black Sea. On its journey, it passes through Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Yugoslavia, Bulgaria and Romania. Incidentally, contrary to the name of the famous waltz, it is not blue.
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Royal Palace
There have been palaces built here since the 13th century. However, they seem to have been frequently razed to the ground, most recently during the hand-to-hand fighting between the Germans and the Russians towards the end of the Second World War. The palace we see now was rebuilt in the 60's and 70's and houses several museums and art galleries. There is an interesting exhibition of finds from the medieval palace - don't miss the Matyas Fountain at the back. The best way to get to the palace is via the little cable car (siklo) from Clark Adam Square, which offers spectacular views on the way up. Alternatively the meandering path with many staircases is also very pleasant.
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Rózsadomb
This is a terribly romantic area; the name means Rose Hill. The roses came from the Turks, and were planted by Gul Baba, a Turkish poet and mystic said by some to have introduced the flower to Hungary. A street in the area is named after Gul Baba, ironically the only street in Budapest to be named after a Turk, and the same man is commemorated by the Gul Baba tomb. There are some fine views out over the city from the heights, and it's pleasant to randomly walk around the streets. Small local restaurants (vendeglos) are scattered here and there on the hill, as are lots of pensions and small stores. Many of the houses are very fine as well, and then, of course, there are the beautiful roses.
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Rudas Thermal Baths
These stunning Turkish baths partially date back to the 1500's (the pool was added in the 19th century). While the building is architecturally magnificent, the waters themselves are also curative, providing relief to a range of symptoms and disorders. In addition to this, all types of massage are available and there is also a physiotherapy department on-site. The baths were remodeled by the Turkish Pasha Sokoli Mustapha in 1566 and among other fine architectural features to be seen is the splendid cupola.
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