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There are great many landmarks in Europe
, and so are in Hungary.Hungary shines like a dazzling jewel in the heart of Europe, adorned with a cherished collection of landmarks that tell its inspiring story.
From the shimmering Danube River to the spellbinding Buda Castle, each iconic sight is a treasure trove of history, culture, and legends that have stood the test of time.
As you venture into this enchanting land, let the sights before you paint a kaleidoscope of emotions and ignite your sense of wanderlust.
1. Buda Castle
An iconic landmark in Budapest, Hungary, sitting atop Castle Hill overlooking the Danube River.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the castle’s complex of historic buildings, including the Royal Palace, Matthias Church, the Fisherman’s Bastion, and the Castle Museum.
Take in stunning views of the city from the castle ramparts.
Don’t miss: The changing of the guard ceremony, which takes place every hour in front of the palace entrance.
Insider travel tips: Consider visiting the castle in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as there are cobblestone streets and staircases throughout the complex.
For the best view of the castle at night, head to the Fisherman’s Bastion.
2. Fisherman’s Bastion
A neo-Gothic terrace located on the Buda bank of the Danube river in Budapest.
What to see or do: Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city from one of its seven turrets and admire the architecture of the terrace. Walk along its beautiful stairs and explore the bastion’s different levels.
Don’t miss: The Matthias Church, located next to the Fisherman’s Bastion. Admire the detailed decorations both outside and inside the church, and learn more about its historical significance.
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds and enjoy the views in peace. Don’t forget your camera – the terrace offers some of the best photo opportunities in the city.
Avoid visiting on holidays or weekends, as it tends to be more crowded during these times.
3. Hungarian Parliament Building
A magnificent neo-gothic building located along the banks of the Danube River in Budapest, Hungary.
What to see or do: Visitors can take guided tours of the building, which include access to the famous “Lair of the Holy Crown” where the Hungarian crown jewels are kept.
The building also houses the Hungarian National Assembly and the offices of the Prime Minister and the Speaker of the National Assembly.
Don’t miss: Admire the impressive facade of the building, which features 88 statues of Hungarian rulers, leaders, and military figures, and take a stroll on the grand staircase.
Insider travel tips: Book your tour in advance to avoid long wait times. For the best photo opportunities, visit the building during sunset when the lights illuminate the facade.
4. Széchenyi Bath
Széchenyi Bath is the largest medicinal bath in Europe located in Budapest, Hungary.
What to see or do: Visitors can relax in the 18 pools filled with mineral-rich thermal water heated by natural springs. The bath also offers various treatments like massages, saunas, and steam rooms that are great for rejuvenation and therapy.
Don’t miss: The outdoor pool area is a must-see, especially at night when it’s beautifully illuminated with colorful lights.
It’s also recommended to visit during winter when steam rises from the outdoor pools in the cold winter air providing a unique experience.
Insider travel tips: Bring your own towel and flip-flops to avoid extra charges. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends, so it’s better to plan your visit accordingly.
To avoid long queues, it’s advisable to get your ticket online and arrive early in the morning or after sunset.
5. Matthias Church
Matthias Church is a beautiful Catholic church located in Budapest, Hungary, and is one of the top tourist attractions in the city.
What to see or do: Visitors can marvel at the stunning Gothic architecture both inside and out, as well as the intricate stained glass windows that sparkle in the sunlight.
The royal history and unique decor make Matthias Church a must-visit while in Budapest.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take a closer look at the frescoes on the walls, depicting scenes from Hungarian history and legends. The ornate and colorful altar is also a sight to behold.
Insider travel tips: To avoid the crowds, visit the church early in the morning or later in the evening. Additionally, buy the “Skip the Line” ticket to avoid long waits for admission.
Finally, take some time to explore the charming Fisherman’s Bastion, located right next to the church, which offers stunning views of the city and the Danube River.
6. Chain Bridge
Chain Bridge is a suspension bridge that joins the Buda and Pest districts of Budapest.
What to see or do: You can take a walk or bike ride across the bridge and admire the stunning views of the Danube River and the city.
Don’t miss: At night, the bridge is beautifully illuminated, making for a romantic and captivating atmosphere.
Insider travel tips: If you’re interested in history, make sure to check out the plaques on either side of the bridge detailing its fascinating story.
Also, consider taking a boat ride on the Danube to get an even better view of the bridge and its surroundings.
7. Saint Stephen’s Basilica
Saint Stephen’s Basilica is a magnificent church located in the heart of Budapest, Hungary.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the stunning architecture of the basilica, including its grand dome and neoclassical façade.
Inside the church, they can see beautiful mosaics, intricate frescoes, and a sacred relic – the mummified right hand of Saint Stephen, Hungary’s first king.
Don’t miss: For an amazing view of Budapest, climb the 364 steps to the top of the basilica’s dome. The panoramic view includes the Danube River, Buda Castle, and Parliament Building.
Insider travel tips: Visitors should dress respectfully when entering the church and avoid bringing large bags or backpacks. There may also be a queue to see the mummified hand, so plan accordingly.
It is also recommended to visit early in the day to avoid crowds.
8. Heroes’ Square
Heroes’ Square is a major landmark in Budapest, Hungary. It was built in 1896 to commemorate the 1,000th anniversary of the Magyar conquest of Hungary.
What to see or do: – Admire the Millennium Monument at the center of the square, featuring statues of the Seven Chieftains of the Magyars and other important Hungarian national leaders.
Don’t miss: – The changing of the guards at the Millennium Monument.
Insider travel tips: – Visit Heroes’ Square early in the morning to avoid crowds.
9. Gellért Hill
A 235-meter-high hill in Budapest named after Saint Gerard, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
What to see or do: Admire the stunning vistas of Budapest from the top of the hill, which can be reached via a scenic walk or a quick ride on the Budapest hillside railway.
Visit the iconic Statue of Liberty, constructed in 1947 to commemorate Hungary’s liberation from Nazi rule.
Don’t miss: Taking a dip in the outdoor thermal baths of the Gellért Baths, located at the foot of the hill. These beautiful Art Nouveau baths are a must-visit for travelers seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.
Insider travel tips: Head to the hill at sunset for stunning views of the city bathed in golden light. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a bottle of water for the climb, especially in the summer months.
Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid the crowds.
10. Gellért Thermal Bath
One of Budapest’s most famous and historic thermal baths, located in the Gellért Hotel complex.
What to see or do: Enjoy the many indoor and outdoor thermal pools, saunas, steam rooms, and plunge pools. Admire the beautiful Art Nouveau architecture and mosaics throughout the building.
Don’t miss: The iconic main pool, which has a stunning glass roof and is surrounded by intricate columns and statues. The wave pool, which generates artificial waves every half hour, is also a must-try.
Insider travel tips: Bring your own towel and flip flops to avoid rental fees. Visit during the early morning or evening hours to avoid crowds.
Don’t forget to hydrate and rest in between sessions in the hot pools and saunas.
11. Andrássy Avenue
Andrássy Avenue is a famous boulevard in Budapest, Hungary, that stretches over 2 kilometers long and connecting Erzsébet Square with Heroes’ Square.
What to see or do: Andrássy Avenue is an architectural and historical landmark of Budapest that comprises of various iconic attractions such as the Hungarian State Opera House, the House of Terror Museum, Zoltán Kodály Memorial Museum, and the Liszt Ferenc Academy of Music.
Don’t miss: The Andrássy Avenue is a perfect spot for a leisure stroll or enjoying a bicycle ride. While exploring, don’t miss the beautiful UNESCO-listed buildings, frescoes and sculptures of the 19th century.
Insider travel tips: Visit the Avenue during the night to witness it live with the grand lighting of its architecture.
12. Vajdahunyad Castle
A historical castle located in City Park, Budapest, Hungary.
What to see or do: Explore the stunning architecture and take a trip back in time to visit various exhibitions within the castle walls. Visitors can also take a leisurely stroll around the stunning lake and beautiful gardens surrounding the castle.
Don’t miss: The Budapest Museum of Agriculture, the statue of Anonymus, which is said to embody the spirit of the Hungarian people, and the Gothic Room, which displays various Gothic-era artworks.
Insider travel tips: Visit the castle during the winter months when it is transformed into a magical winter wonderland with ice-skating rinks and festive markets.
Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning views of the castle as the sun sets over the lake.
13. Great Market Hall
The Great Market Hall, also known as the Central Market Hall, is a large indoor market located in Budapest, Hungary.
What to see or do: Visitors can stroll through the three floors of the hall and explore the various vendors selling traditional Hungarian foods, wines, and souvenirs.
Fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and spices can also be found here, making it a great place to grab some ingredients for a picnic or a meal.
Don’t miss: The market is known for its famous Hungarian sausage called “kolbasz” and their paprika selection. Be sure to sample some while you’re there.
Another must-see is the stunning architecture of the hall, with its impressive iron framework and colorful roof tiles.
Insider travel tips: – Weekday mornings are less crowded, making it easier to navigate the market and find the best deals.
14. Margaret Island
Margaret Island is a 2.5-kilometre-long green oasis situated in the middle of the Danube River in Budapest, Hungary.
What to see or do: Walk or bike around the island’s beautiful park and gardens.
Don’t miss: The Japanese Garden, a serene and tranquil escape in the heart of the city.
Insider travel tips: Rent a bike or bring your own to explore the island faster.
15. Dohány Street Synagogue
Dohány Street Synagogue is the largest synagogue in Europe and one of the top tourist attractions in Budapest.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the beautifully decorated, Moorish Revival style building, including the stunning interior with intricate carvings, colorful stained-glass windows, and the impressive Ark.
The synagogue also houses the Hungarian Jewish Museum and the Holocaust Memorial Room.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the guided tour that takes visitors through the history of the Jewish community in Budapest and Hungary, including their struggles and triumphs.
Insider travel tips: For the best experience, it’s recommended to book tickets in advance, as the synagogue can get busy. Visitors should also dress appropriately and pay their respects when entering the synagogue.
Additionally, there are many kosher restaurants and shops in the surrounding Jewish Quarter that are worth a visit.
16. Castle Hill Funicular
A historic funicular railway in Budapest, Hungary.
What to see or do: Enjoy a stunning panoramic view of Budapest from the Buda Castle to the Danube River. Experience a unique and fun way to travel uphill without breaking a sweat.
Don’t miss: The Buda Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the main attraction at the top of the funicular. Take a stroll through the castle complex, explore the museums, and admire the stunning views.
Insider travel tips: Purchase a Budapest Card to get free access to the funicular and many other attractions in Budapest. Go early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid long lines and crowds.
Stop at the Fisherman’s Bastion for another breathtaking view of the city.
17. Museum of Fine Arts
One of the largest and oldest art institutions in the United States, the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston features over 450,000 works of art from ancient times to contemporary art.
What to see or do: From European paintings to American artwork, Ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary sculptures, the MFA offers a diverse collection that is sure to captivate any art lover.
Visitors can spend hours marveling at famous works like John Singer Sargent’s “The Daughters of Edward Darley Boit” and Vincent van Gogh’s “Sunflowers”.
The museum also hosts special art exhibitions and events throughout the year.
Don’t miss: The Art of the Americas Wing, which showcases artwork from North, Central, and South America dating from pre-Columbian times to the present.
Visitors can explore impressive collections of indigenous artwork and artifacts, portraits by American painters, and even a fully reconstructed historic New England house.
Insider travel tips: – Plan your visit on a Wednesday when general admission is free for all visitors after 4 pm.
18. State Opera House
Historic Opera House in the heart of Vienna, Austria that hosts a variety of performances.
What to see or do: Attend a performance of the Vienna State Opera, which offers a diverse lineup of ballet, opera, and classical music. Take a guided tour of the building to appreciate its grand architecture, interior decorations, and learn about its history.
Don’t miss: Experience the grandeur of the Opera House’s interior, adorned with marble staircases, chandeliers, and gold-leaf details.
Take a peek into the Gustav Mahler Room, dedicated to the renowned composer who served as the Opera’s director in the early 1900s.
Insider travel tips: For last-minute tickets, visit the box office or standing-room ticket booth, which offer discounted rates for certain performances.
Dress formal attire for a night at the opera or ballet, and arrive early to enjoy a pre-show drink at the Opera’s bar or cafe.
Check the Opera’s website for upcoming performances and plan your visit accordingly.
19. Hungarian State Opera
The Hungarian State Opera is a historic opera house in Budapest, Hungary.
What to see or do: Tour the interior of the building and admire its stunning architecture and lavish décor. Attend a world-class opera or ballet performance in the elegant auditorium.
Don’t miss: The grand staircase, adorned with frescoes and sculptures. The main stage featuring intricate sets and costumes.
The acoustics, which are considered some of the best in the world.
Insider travel tips: Book tickets in advance to avoid disappointment, especially during peak tourist season. Dress smartly for performances and tours, as the dress code is formal.
Consider attending a matinee performance to save money on ticket prices.
20. Esztergom Basilica
Esztergom Basilica is a stunning Neo-Classical cathedral that sits on top of a hill overlooking the Danube River in Hungary.
What to see or do: Marvel at the grandeur of the ornate interior with its high arches, intricate mosaics, and towering dome. Take in the breathtaking views of the Danube River and the surrounding town from the Basilica’s observation deck.
Don’t miss: The tomb of Cardinal József Mindszenty, who was a prominent figure in Hungary’s anti-communist resistance movement.
Insider travel tips: Visit in the afternoon to catch the beautiful sunset over the river. Don’t forget to dress modestly – shorts and bare shoulders are not allowed inside the Basilica.
21. Liberty Bridge
A pedestrian and bike bridge spanning the Danube River in Budapest, Hungary.
What to see or do: Walk along the bridge and take in stunning views of the Danube and Buda Castle.
Don’t miss: The bridge is beautifully lit up at night and provides a perfect spot for photos.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the day to avoid the crowds and enjoy a leisurely stroll. Be sure to check out the nearby Great Market Hall for some delicious local food.
22. Hungarian National Museum
The Hungarian National Museum is a museum showcasing the art, history, and culture of Hungary. It was founded in 1802 and is one of the oldest and largest museums in Hungary.
What to see or do: The museum has a vast collection of artifacts, documents, and works of art showcasing the history of Hungary from prehistoric times to modern-day.
Exhibits include the coronation mantle of Hungarian kings, ancient Roman artifacts, medieval stone carvings, and Hungarian paintings and sculptures from the 19th and 20th centuries.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the museum is the exhibition of the Hungarian crown jewels, including the Holy Crown of Hungary, the symbol of Hungarian sovereignty.
Visitors can also see the replica of the Roman Lapidarium, which showcases the best-preserved parts of the ancient city of Aquincum.
Insider travel tips: -The museum offers guided tours in English and other languages.
23. Votive Church
The Votive Church is a neo-Gothic style church located in Vienna, Austria.
It was built in the late 19th century as a symbol of gratitude for an unsuccessful assassination attempt on Emperor Franz Joseph.
What to see or do: Visitors can marvel at the impressive exterior and intricate details of the church’s façade, which features ornate spires and towering buttresses.
Inside, the gothic-style architecture continues, with soaring ceilings and stained glass windows.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the Votive Church is the intricate mosaics that adorn the walls and ceilings. Visitors should not miss the chance to see these beautiful works of art up close.
Insider travel tips: – The Votive Church is located in the Alsergrund district of Vienna, which is known for its charming cafes and restaurants.
Visitors should plan to spend some time exploring the neighborhood.
24. St
St.
What to see or do:
Don’t miss: The City Museum is a unique and interactive museum that both kids and adults will enjoy. The Gateway Arch is also a must-visit and offers great views of the city.
Insider travel tips: Don’t miss trying some of the famous local foods such as toasted ravioli, gooey butter cake, and St. Louis-style pizza.
Also, consider a visit to the Anheuser-Busch brewery for a tour and tasting.
25. Basilica of Esztergom
The Basilica of Esztergom is the largest church in Hungary and an iconic landmark of the city of Esztergom.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the stunning Neo-Classical architecture and intricate interior decoration of the basilica, including the magnificent main altar, the ornate pulpit, and the beautiful stained glass windows.
The panorama from the dome is also a must-see.
Don’t miss: Make sure to catch a glimpse of the dazzling treasury, which houses a stunning collection of ecclesiastical art and objects, including the Coronation Mantle, Hungary’s most precious national treasure.
Insider travel tips: – To avoid the crowds, visit the basilica early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
26. Pécs Cathedral
Pécs Cathedral, situated in the heart of Pécs city, is a spectacular Roman Catholic cathedral and one of the most important historic landmarks in Hungary.
What to see or do: Visit the magnificent cathedral, adorned with intricate frescoes and stunning stained-glass windows. Admire the beautiful artwork and architecture, featuring a mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles.
Take a guided tour to learn about the history and significance of the cathedral.
Don’t miss: The crypt beneath the cathedral, which houses the remains of several notable historical figures, including Bishop Janus Pannonius and Bishop Vilmos Apor.
The impressive organ, with over 5000 pipes and beautiful sound.
Insider travel tips: – Try to visit during a service for a truly spiritual experience.
27. Sopron’s Firewatch Tower
A historic tower located in Sopron, Hungary, dating back to the 13th century.
What to see or do: Climb to the top of the tower for panoramic views of Sopron’s beautiful architecture and countryside.
Don’t miss: The unique view of Hungary and Austria, as Sopron is located only 5km from the border.
Insider travel tips: Bring a camera to capture the stunning views. The tower can get crowded during peak tourist season, so arrive early for the best experience.
Don’t forget to explore the charming town of Sopron while you’re there.
28. Szeged Votive Church
Szeged Votive Church is a stunning cathedral located in the heart of Szeged, Hungary.
What to see or do: Visitors can wander around the church’s grand interior, which features intricate stained-glass windows, ornate decorations, and impressive vaulted ceilings.
You can also climb the stairs to the top of the church’s tower for some spectacular panoramic views of the city.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the Szeged Votive Church is its amazing organ, which boasts over 10,000 pipes and is one of the largest in Europe.
Be sure to check out a concert or performance to hear this incredible instrument in action.
Insider travel tips: Expect crowds during peak tourist season, so try to visit early in the morning or later in the day to avoid the crowds.
Also, make sure to wear comfortable shoes as the climb to the top of the tower can be quite strenuous. Finally, consider booking a guided tour to learn more about the history and architecture of this incredible landmark.
29. Oradea Fortress
Oradea Fortress is a medieval castle located in the western Romanian city of Oradea.
The fortress was built in the 12th century and was once one of the most important defense systems in the region.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the fortress, which consists of a large central keep and several surrounding walls and towers.
The castle also houses the impressive Museum of the Crisana Region, which features exhibits on the history of the fortress and the surrounding area.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take a walk around the fortress walls for stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside. Also, don’t miss the chance to climb the central tower for panoramic views of the entire fortress.
Insider travel tips: To avoid crowds, try to visit the fortress early in the morning or late in the afternoon. The museum offers guided tours that are well worth the extra cost.
Additionally, be sure to bring comfortable shoes as there are many stairs and steep inclines to navigate within the fortress.
30. Royal Palace of Gödöllő
The Royal Palace of Gödöllő is a former summer residence of the Habsburg dynasty located in the town of Gödöllő, Hungary.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the lavish interiors and learn about the palace’s history through guided tours.
The grounds also feature a beautiful English-style garden and a horse stable museum where visitors can see the royal family’s horses.
Don’t miss: The stunning Great Hall, which features intricate frescoes, crystal chandeliers, and ornate furnishings that give visitors a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Habsburg monarchy.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to check the palace’s website for guided tour times and to purchase tickets in advance. Additionally, visitors should take some time to explore the charming town of Gödöllő and its local shops and restaurants.