Destination
Things to see and do in Budapest : Tourism and activities
10 addresses
Margitsziget
BudapestDescription:
Named after King Béla's nine-year-old daughter, who was sent to a convent on the island in the 13th century, Margaret Island is a favourite with local city dwellers. This is largely due to its versatility and array of sites and attractions that hold wide appeal, as well as carefully cultivated parks that bloom in summer. Accessible via Margaret Bridge, the island sits between Buda and Pest, affording views of both skylines, so simply a walk around the island edge is a treat in itself. You may have to skip out of the way of joggers who take advantage of the cushioned running track, though. History lovers should take time to visit the Franciscan church ruins, while those who love to swim should visit the Palatinus Strand (a big hit with families) or the Hajós Alfréd pool (for the more serious swimmer). Perhaps you've done too much exploring already? Then simply take a picnic and spend a lazy day in the lush parks.
Szentendre
SzentendreDescription:
BUDA SIDE. Jump on a HEV train from Budapest to Szentendre and only 20 minutes or so later, you'll find yourself in a quaint little Hungarian town. Szentendre sits on the banks of the Danube and is all quirky architecture and cobbled squares. It's a small place, but this can be refreshing if you want to explore historic sights but don't want to walk too far. Though there is a distinct Hungarian feel to Szentendre, there is an undercurrent that sets it apart. The town was a refuge for Serbians who were forced to flee in 14th- and 17th-century conflicts and as such, there is an element of Serbian culture in Szentendre that's knitted in with the Hungarian way of life. Certain sights around the town are indicative of this, namely, the Belgrade Church and the Serbian History Collection. One of the main attractions in this area of greater Budapest is the open-air museum. (www.skanzen.hu) Cleverly devised, this is almost a 'working museum', where life-size historic buildings have been recreated, all fully furnished, to give you incredibly detailed insight into historic Hungary. There are even cattle in some of the small-holdings that are sure to delight the children. You can reach the museum by taking a bus from bay seven at the Szentendre bus station (situated next to the train station).
Állami Operaház
Andrássy út 22 Budapest 1061 • +36 1 332 8197Description:
PEST SIDE. Opened in 1884, the State Opera House took nearly a decade to complete. Renovated in the 1980s in celebration of its centenary, the building sits majestically along the rather plush Andrássy út (particularly striking in winter, when fairylights are twisted around the line of trees). Its interior incorporates lush velvets, marble floors and sweeping mouldings, and if you're willing to put up with a seat towards the back of the house, you can partake in an evening of culture and opera for the decidedly un-majestic sum of 300 HUF.
Budavári Labirintus
Úri utca 9 Budapest 1014 • +36 1 212 0207Description:
BUDA SIDE. The Castle District is Budapest's pocket of history, where the streets are cobbled and the buildings traditional. But it's not just above-ground that you get a sense of the history behind this district there are areas to explore underground, too. Situated below those cobbled streets is this, a 1200m long labryinth of tunnels and small caves. This underground network was used as an air-raid shelter in World War II; now it houses some quirky pieces of art work, including the sunken 'crowned head' sculpture and the 'ivy grotto', where a fountain coated in ivy spouts red wine instead of water. Short films are shown in English, Hungarian and German, from 10am-7pm, and the 'night-time labryinth' lets you explore the caves with oil lamps. Wheelchair access can be found at the second entrance on Lovas ut 4.
Budavári Sikló
Clark Adám tér BudapestDescription:
BUDA SIDE. You may wish to reach the Castle District in a more conventional manner, such as a bus or taxi, but if you're looking for something a little more quaint, hitch a ride on the funicular. Opened in the late 19th century (but renovated in 1986 following its destruction in World War II), this is essentially a transport system formed of cablecar-like cubicles ascending the steep Buda hill. The journey takes only a few minutes, but you do get some great views of Pest. The funicular can be taken from Clark Adám tér (the Buda end of Chain Bridge), up to the castle.
Felszabadulási Emlékmu
Géllert BudapestDescription:
BUDA SIDE. If you've scanned the Buda skyline, you will not have missed the Liberty Statue. This stark statue, depicting a woman holding aloft a palm leaf, has something of an unsettled history. The evocative sculpture was originally commissioned by an admiral to honour his son who had died in World War II. However, as the war escalated, the sculpture was not erected until 1945, when its commemorative purpose was dramatically altered and instead used to commemorate the liberation of Hungary by the Soviets. Following the crumbling of Communism in 1989, the commemoration was again changed, and now the Liberty Statue stands for all those who "laid down their lives for Hungarian prosperity". Get close to appreciate the sculptor's achievement in creating this historic memorial.
Gellért Thermal Bath
Kelenhegyi út 4 Budapest 1118 • +36 466 6166Description:
Budapest is built upon a number of thermal springs. Plumbing into these springs are thermal baths scattered across the city; Gellért is one of the more famous. Annexed to a luxurious four-star hotel, the facility offers a total of eight hot effervescent baths. Bathing in the spring water, heavy in magnesium, calcium and fluoride ions, is said to ease all manner of ailments, including skin conditions and joint pains. Whether this is true or not, simply wallowing in the wonderfully warm spring water and perhaps indulging in a massage from one of the bath's therapists will equate to a relaxing day. One thing to note: as with many of the thermal baths in the city, there are single-sex areas, though these are all clearly marked.
Great Synagogue
Dohany utca 2 Budapest • +36 1 342 8949Description:
PEST SIDE. The Great Synagogue occupies an area of Pest referred to as the Jewish Quarter. Today, it's an area that's experiencing a significant degree of regeneration, and there are plans to pedestrianise certain streets and build modern apartment blocks. During the Second World War, however, it was the area to which 70,000 Jews were forcibly moved by the Germans and Hungarians. Nearly a quarter of these people died before liberation from the ghetto came in the shape of the Russians in 1945. This synagogue is one of the largest in Europe and its exterior curves, lofty interior and 3000 capacity form an impressive sight. To the rear of the synagogue is a cemetery and a steel sculpture of a willow (the Memorial Tree); on the leaves are the names of those who perished during the Holocaust. It's a sombre sight and one that you'll never forget making it an essential part of any itinerary.
H?sök tere
Andrássy út BudapestDescription:
PEST SIDE. There are few places in central Europe that do memorials quite as extravagantly as Budapest. If in doubt, simply visit Heroes' Square. As you leave the metro exit (of the same name), you're faced with a sweeping, towering memorial, built at the end of the 19th century. The vast flat square is hugged by two semi-circles incorporating symoblic figures said to represent war and peace, knowledge and glory. Also known as the 'millenary monument', the commemorative structure was built on the 1000th anniversary of the Hungarians' settlement in the Carpathian Basin. In addition to the millenary monument, Heroes' Square is also home to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, plus the Museum of Fine Arts a breathtaking structure in itself.
Magyar Nemzeti Galéria
Buda Palace Szent György tér 2, Budapest 1250 • +36 20 439 7325Description:
The Buda Palace occupies a vast space on the Buda skyline, overlooking the Danube river. Within this impressive building is the Hungarian National Gallery. For those looking to gain an appreciation of the country's history through art, this is the place to visit: the permanent exhibitions are organised in relation to eras (the Communist work is particularly interesting in its very starkness when compared with the lush oils of the 19th century). The interior, with high ceilings and ornate mouldings, is just as striking as the work collected within more than 6,000 paintings and 11,000 drawings. And once you've had your fill of Hungarian art (and it will take quite some time), you can step outside and admire the palace's architecture up-close, as well as the Pest skyline from afar.
Best of the City
Margitsziget
BudapestDescription:
Named after King Béla's nine-year-old daughter, who was sent to a convent on the island in the 13th century, Margaret Island is a favourite with local city dwellers. This is largely due to its versatility and array of sites and attractions that hold wide appeal, as well as carefully cultivated parks that bloom in summer. Accessible via Margaret Bridge, the island sits between Buda and Pest, affording views of both skylines, so simply a walk around the island edge is a treat in itself. You may have to skip out of the way of joggers who take advantage of the cushioned running track, though. History lovers should take time to visit the Franciscan church ruins, while those who love to swim should visit the Palatinus Strand (a big hit with families) or the Hajós Alfréd pool (for the more serious swimmer). Perhaps you've done too much exploring already? Then simply take a picnic and spend a lazy day in the lush parks.
Szentendre
SzentendreDescription:
BUDA SIDE. Jump on a HEV train from Budapest to Szentendre and only 20 minutes or so later, you'll find yourself in a quaint little Hungarian town. Szentendre sits on the banks of the Danube and is all quirky architecture and cobbled squares. It's a small place, but this can be refreshing if you want to explore historic sights but don't want to walk too far. Though there is a distinct Hungarian feel to Szentendre, there is an undercurrent that sets it apart. The town was a refuge for Serbians who were forced to flee in 14th- and 17th-century conflicts and as such, there is an element of Serbian culture in Szentendre that's knitted in with the Hungarian way of life. Certain sights around the town are indicative of this, namely, the Belgrade Church and the Serbian History Collection. One of the main attractions in this area of greater Budapest is the open-air museum. (www.skanzen.hu) Cleverly devised, this is almost a 'working museum', where life-size historic buildings have been recreated, all fully furnished, to give you incredibly detailed insight into historic Hungary. There are even cattle in some of the small-holdings that are sure to delight the children. You can reach the museum by taking a bus from bay seven at the Szentendre bus station (situated next to the train station).
Állami Operaház
Andrássy út 22 Budapest 1061 • +36 1 332 8197Description:
PEST SIDE. Opened in 1884, the State Opera House took nearly a decade to complete. Renovated in the 1980s in celebration of its centenary, the building sits majestically along the rather plush Andrássy út (particularly striking in winter, when fairylights are twisted around the line of trees). Its interior incorporates lush velvets, marble floors and sweeping mouldings, and if you're willing to put up with a seat towards the back of the house, you can partake in an evening of culture and opera for the decidedly un-majestic sum of 300 HUF.
Gellért Thermal Bath
Kelenhegyi út 4 Budapest 1118 • +36 466 6166Description:
Budapest is built upon a number of thermal springs. Plumbing into these springs are thermal baths scattered across the city; Gellért is one of the more famous. Annexed to a luxurious four-star hotel, the facility offers a total of eight hot effervescent baths. Bathing in the spring water, heavy in magnesium, calcium and fluoride ions, is said to ease all manner of ailments, including skin conditions and joint pains. Whether this is true or not, simply wallowing in the wonderfully warm spring water and perhaps indulging in a massage from one of the bath's therapists will equate to a relaxing day. One thing to note: as with many of the thermal baths in the city, there are single-sex areas, though these are all clearly marked.
H?sök tere
Andrássy út BudapestDescription:
PEST SIDE. There are few places in central Europe that do memorials quite as extravagantly as Budapest. If in doubt, simply visit Heroes' Square. As you leave the metro exit (of the same name), you're faced with a sweeping, towering memorial, built at the end of the 19th century. The vast flat square is hugged by two semi-circles incorporating symoblic figures said to represent war and peace, knowledge and glory. Also known as the 'millenary monument', the commemorative structure was built on the 1000th anniversary of the Hungarians' settlement in the Carpathian Basin. In addition to the millenary monument, Heroes' Square is also home to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, plus the Museum of Fine Arts a breathtaking structure in itself.
Magyar Nemzeti Galéria
Buda Palace Szent György tér 2, Budapest 1250 • +36 20 439 7325Description:
The Buda Palace occupies a vast space on the Buda skyline, overlooking the Danube river. Within this impressive building is the Hungarian National Gallery. For those looking to gain an appreciation of the country's history through art, this is the place to visit: the permanent exhibitions are organised in relation to eras (the Communist work is particularly interesting in its very starkness when compared with the lush oils of the 19th century). The interior, with high ceilings and ornate mouldings, is just as striking as the work collected within more than 6,000 paintings and 11,000 drawings. And once you've had your fill of Hungarian art (and it will take quite some time), you can step outside and admire the palace's architecture up-close, as well as the Pest skyline from afar.
Magyar Nemzeti Múzeum
Múzeum krt 14-16 Budapest 1088 • +36 1 338 2122Description:
BUDA SIDE. The Hungarian National Museum is a work of art in itself: pillars reaching towards the sky; carvings on the facade. Built in the early 19th century, the museum houses a wealth of historic artifacts that will deepen your appreciation of the national culture. The permanent exhibition spans from the age of the Arpads and the Turkish invasion, through World War II and the fall of Communism. The museum also offers regular temporary exhibitions that are still underpinned by the national history but give a different perspective on the country's heritage.
Mátyás Templom
Szentháromság tér 2 Budapest • +36 1 355 5657Description:
BUDA SIDE. Matthias Church sits proudly in the Castle District, overlooking the flat landscape of Pest and nestling next to Fishermen's Bastion. The striking structure is actually a composite of architecture following the sieges, wars and conflicts since it was first established in the 15th century it even had structural work in 2006. Its colourful peaks make for a vibrant spot on the Buda skyline but it's inside where you'll be treated to the sight of the awe-inspring Frigyes Schulek-designed stained-glass windows.
Szobor Park
corner of Balatoni út and Szabadkai utca Budapest 1223 • +36 1 424 7500Description:
BUDA SIDE. Also known as 'Memento Park', this area gives unique insight into the 44 years of Communism. Imposing stone monuments denote 'liberation,' and propoganda sculptures depict friendship between the Hungarians and the Soviets. Chiselled statues of Lenin, Marx and Engels overshadow visitors, but there's an eeriness to the celebratory nature of these statues that no simple picture in a book could communicate as effectively as a visit. The collection of such sculptures is fascinating but also telling is the location of this park: right on the outskirts of Budapest. It's as if the people have swept aside these remnants so as not to be reminded of the dictatorship. A direct bus runs daily from Deák tér at 11am, and also at 3pm during July and August; cost is HUF 3950. Alternatively, take the metro out of Budapest and then catch a public bus heading for Etele tér.
Váci utca
Vörösmarty tér BudapestDescription:
PEST SIDE. Stretching from Vörösmarty tér to Liberty Bridge is the shopping strip of Váci utca. This exceptionally vibrant road is full of shops (national and international brands, as well as smaller, local outlets) and a wealth of restaurants. It's a pedestrianised strip, giving the street a particularly laid-back air. Even if you're not in need of some retail therapy, it's worth simply sauntering down the utca and taking in some of this atmosphere. Start your walk at Vörösmarty tér, a square where the air is laced with the smell of coffee, due to the famous Gerbeaud cafe situated here, and walk straight down, stopping perhaps for an ice-cream at one of the vendors or an al fresco meal at one of the restaurants. Keep on strolling, and end up at the Central Market Hall at the Pest-side of Liberty Bridge. Finish your walk with a browse around this vast market, with its various stalls selling local wares and food.
Attractions
Szentendre
SzentendreDescription:
BUDA SIDE. Jump on a HEV train from Budapest to Szentendre and only 20 minutes or so later, you'll find yourself in a quaint little Hungarian town. Szentendre sits on the banks of the Danube and is all quirky architecture and cobbled squares. It's a small place, but this can be refreshing if you want to explore historic sights but don't want to walk too far. Though there is a distinct Hungarian feel to Szentendre, there is an undercurrent that sets it apart. The town was a refuge for Serbians who were forced to flee in 14th- and 17th-century conflicts and as such, there is an element of Serbian culture in Szentendre that's knitted in with the Hungarian way of life. Certain sights around the town are indicative of this, namely, the Belgrade Church and the Serbian History Collection. One of the main attractions in this area of greater Budapest is the open-air museum. (www.skanzen.hu) Cleverly devised, this is almost a 'working museum', where life-size historic buildings have been recreated, all fully furnished, to give you incredibly detailed insight into historic Hungary. There are even cattle in some of the small-holdings that are sure to delight the children. You can reach the museum by taking a bus from bay seven at the Szentendre bus station (situated next to the train station).
Állami Operaház
Andrássy út 22 Budapest 1061 • +36 1 332 8197Description:
PEST SIDE. Opened in 1884, the State Opera House took nearly a decade to complete. Renovated in the 1980s in celebration of its centenary, the building sits majestically along the rather plush Andrássy út (particularly striking in winter, when fairylights are twisted around the line of trees). Its interior incorporates lush velvets, marble floors and sweeping mouldings, and if you're willing to put up with a seat towards the back of the house, you can partake in an evening of culture and opera for the decidedly un-majestic sum of 300 HUF.
Budavári Labirintus
Úri utca 9 Budapest 1014 • +36 1 212 0207Description:
BUDA SIDE. The Castle District is Budapest's pocket of history, where the streets are cobbled and the buildings traditional. But it's not just above-ground that you get a sense of the history behind this district there are areas to explore underground, too. Situated below those cobbled streets is this, a 1200m long labryinth of tunnels and small caves. This underground network was used as an air-raid shelter in World War II; now it houses some quirky pieces of art work, including the sunken 'crowned head' sculpture and the 'ivy grotto', where a fountain coated in ivy spouts red wine instead of water. Short films are shown in English, Hungarian and German, from 10am-7pm, and the 'night-time labryinth' lets you explore the caves with oil lamps. Wheelchair access can be found at the second entrance on Lovas ut 4.
Budavári Sikló
Clark Adám tér BudapestDescription:
BUDA SIDE. You may wish to reach the Castle District in a more conventional manner, such as a bus or taxi, but if you're looking for something a little more quaint, hitch a ride on the funicular. Opened in the late 19th century (but renovated in 1986 following its destruction in World War II), this is essentially a transport system formed of cablecar-like cubicles ascending the steep Buda hill. The journey takes only a few minutes, but you do get some great views of Pest. The funicular can be taken from Clark Adám tér (the Buda end of Chain Bridge), up to the castle.
Gellért Thermal Bath
Kelenhegyi út 4 Budapest 1118 • +36 466 6166Description:
Budapest is built upon a number of thermal springs. Plumbing into these springs are thermal baths scattered across the city; Gellért is one of the more famous. Annexed to a luxurious four-star hotel, the facility offers a total of eight hot effervescent baths. Bathing in the spring water, heavy in magnesium, calcium and fluoride ions, is said to ease all manner of ailments, including skin conditions and joint pains. Whether this is true or not, simply wallowing in the wonderfully warm spring water and perhaps indulging in a massage from one of the bath's therapists will equate to a relaxing day. One thing to note: as with many of the thermal baths in the city, there are single-sex areas, though these are all clearly marked.
H?sök tere
Andrássy út BudapestDescription:
PEST SIDE. There are few places in central Europe that do memorials quite as extravagantly as Budapest. If in doubt, simply visit Heroes' Square. As you leave the metro exit (of the same name), you're faced with a sweeping, towering memorial, built at the end of the 19th century. The vast flat square is hugged by two semi-circles incorporating symoblic figures said to represent war and peace, knowledge and glory. Also known as the 'millenary monument', the commemorative structure was built on the 1000th anniversary of the Hungarians' settlement in the Carpathian Basin. In addition to the millenary monument, Heroes' Square is also home to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, plus the Museum of Fine Arts a breathtaking structure in itself.
Szent István Bazilika
Szent István tér Budapest • +36 1 317 2859Description:
PEST SIDE. Taking its name from Hungary's founding monarch, St Steven, this basilica is awe-inspiring both inside and out. Looming over the cafe-filled square of Szent István tér, the building's facade is comprised of smoothly curving stonework and is topped off with the Neo-Renaissance dome. This part of the basilica was added in the late 19th century, to replace an original dome that had collapsed due to inadequate building materials. Pay a fee to ascend the basilica and view Budapest from the upper balcony; as you do so, you can see exactly where the replacement dome meets the original building. From the viewing balcony you can appreciate another of the basilica's exterior quirks: it is purposefully the same height as the parliament building. The interior of the basilica is resplendent in gold, religious iconography and sweeping motifs; incredibly, it is also home to an ornate display case that contains the mummified right hand of St Steven himself.
Szobor Park
corner of Balatoni út and Szabadkai utca Budapest 1223 • +36 1 424 7500Description:
BUDA SIDE. Also known as 'Memento Park', this area gives unique insight into the 44 years of Communism. Imposing stone monuments denote 'liberation,' and propoganda sculptures depict friendship between the Hungarians and the Soviets. Chiselled statues of Lenin, Marx and Engels overshadow visitors, but there's an eeriness to the celebratory nature of these statues that no simple picture in a book could communicate as effectively as a visit. The collection of such sculptures is fascinating but also telling is the location of this park: right on the outskirts of Budapest. It's as if the people have swept aside these remnants so as not to be reminded of the dictatorship. A direct bus runs daily from Deák tér at 11am, and also at 3pm during July and August; cost is HUF 3950. Alternatively, take the metro out of Budapest and then catch a public bus heading for Etele tér.
Historic Sites
Szentendre
SzentendreDescription:
BUDA SIDE. Jump on a HEV train from Budapest to Szentendre and only 20 minutes or so later, you'll find yourself in a quaint little Hungarian town. Szentendre sits on the banks of the Danube and is all quirky architecture and cobbled squares. It's a small place, but this can be refreshing if you want to explore historic sights but don't want to walk too far. Though there is a distinct Hungarian feel to Szentendre, there is an undercurrent that sets it apart. The town was a refuge for Serbians who were forced to flee in 14th- and 17th-century conflicts and as such, there is an element of Serbian culture in Szentendre that's knitted in with the Hungarian way of life. Certain sights around the town are indicative of this, namely, the Belgrade Church and the Serbian History Collection. One of the main attractions in this area of greater Budapest is the open-air museum. (www.skanzen.hu) Cleverly devised, this is almost a 'working museum', where life-size historic buildings have been recreated, all fully furnished, to give you incredibly detailed insight into historic Hungary. There are even cattle in some of the small-holdings that are sure to delight the children. You can reach the museum by taking a bus from bay seven at the Szentendre bus station (situated next to the train station).
Felszabadulási Emlékmu
Géllert BudapestDescription:
BUDA SIDE. If you've scanned the Buda skyline, you will not have missed the Liberty Statue. This stark statue, depicting a woman holding aloft a palm leaf, has something of an unsettled history. The evocative sculpture was originally commissioned by an admiral to honour his son who had died in World War II. However, as the war escalated, the sculpture was not erected until 1945, when its commemorative purpose was dramatically altered and instead used to commemorate the liberation of Hungary by the Soviets. Following the crumbling of Communism in 1989, the commemoration was again changed, and now the Liberty Statue stands for all those who "laid down their lives for Hungarian prosperity". Get close to appreciate the sculptor's achievement in creating this historic memorial.
H?sök tere
Andrássy út BudapestDescription:
PEST SIDE. There are few places in central Europe that do memorials quite as extravagantly as Budapest. If in doubt, simply visit Heroes' Square. As you leave the metro exit (of the same name), you're faced with a sweeping, towering memorial, built at the end of the 19th century. The vast flat square is hugged by two semi-circles incorporating symoblic figures said to represent war and peace, knowledge and glory. Also known as the 'millenary monument', the commemorative structure was built on the 1000th anniversary of the Hungarians' settlement in the Carpathian Basin. In addition to the millenary monument, Heroes' Square is also home to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, plus the Museum of Fine Arts a breathtaking structure in itself.
Országház
Kossuth Lajos ter Budapest 1055 • +36 1 441 4904Description:
PEST SIDE. The parliament buildings are the most iconic in Budapest. The vast steeples soar upwards while the main dome is a sweeping focal piece. Built in the early 20th century by Imre Steindl, the buildings represented the strong position Hungary held at that time within the region. It is an impressive sight, both up close and from afar on the banks of Buda, and in the evening, it is lit up to wondrous effect. Guided tours take in the main entrance and the grand staircase but the sculptures and memorials outside are testament to the instability that has surrounded this building: not only was the 1956 uprising sparked here, but it was also the scene for the 2006 protests. Tour tickets should be purchased at least 15 minutes prior to the start of each tour; group bookings must book in advance. Tours are available in English, German, French, Hebrew and Spanish; call for details.
Szent István Bazilika
Szent István tér Budapest • +36 1 317 2859Description:
PEST SIDE. Taking its name from Hungary's founding monarch, St Steven, this basilica is awe-inspiring both inside and out. Looming over the cafe-filled square of Szent István tér, the building's facade is comprised of smoothly curving stonework and is topped off with the Neo-Renaissance dome. This part of the basilica was added in the late 19th century, to replace an original dome that had collapsed due to inadequate building materials. Pay a fee to ascend the basilica and view Budapest from the upper balcony; as you do so, you can see exactly where the replacement dome meets the original building. From the viewing balcony you can appreciate another of the basilica's exterior quirks: it is purposefully the same height as the parliament building. The interior of the basilica is resplendent in gold, religious iconography and sweeping motifs; incredibly, it is also home to an ornate display case that contains the mummified right hand of St Steven himself.
Terror Háza Múzeum
Andrássy út 60 Budapest 1062 • +36 1 374 2631Description:
PEST SIDE. This award-winning museum opened in 2002 as a monument to those who struggled in the harsh regimes that have unsettled Hungary. Most moving is the fact that this museum occupies the former headquarters of the Arrow Cross Party, more generally referred to as the Hungarian Nazis. A sombre orchestral score accompanies your journey through certain reconstructed rooms of the building, but it's down in the basement where the eeriness is the most complete. Here are reconstructed prison cells where those captured by the secret police were tortured. The experience is uniquely affecting. Footage is shown in the screening rooms; installations are used as memorials; and an actual tank occupies the ground floor. The propaganda room, a veritable colour-explosion of posters with angular figures with fists in the air, also conveys a sense of the benign influence the government exerted that then often led to more sinister actions. Metro to Vörösmarty utca station or tram 4 or 6 to Oktogon.
Museums
Szentendre
SzentendreDescription:
BUDA SIDE. Jump on a HEV train from Budapest to Szentendre and only 20 minutes or so later, you'll find yourself in a quaint little Hungarian town. Szentendre sits on the banks of the Danube and is all quirky architecture and cobbled squares. It's a small place, but this can be refreshing if you want to explore historic sights but don't want to walk too far. Though there is a distinct Hungarian feel to Szentendre, there is an undercurrent that sets it apart. The town was a refuge for Serbians who were forced to flee in 14th- and 17th-century conflicts and as such, there is an element of Serbian culture in Szentendre that's knitted in with the Hungarian way of life. Certain sights around the town are indicative of this, namely, the Belgrade Church and the Serbian History Collection. One of the main attractions in this area of greater Budapest is the open-air museum. (www.skanzen.hu) Cleverly devised, this is almost a 'working museum', where life-size historic buildings have been recreated, all fully furnished, to give you incredibly detailed insight into historic Hungary. There are even cattle in some of the small-holdings that are sure to delight the children. You can reach the museum by taking a bus from bay seven at the Szentendre bus station (situated next to the train station).
Great Synagogue
Dohany utca 2 Budapest • +36 1 342 8949Description:
PEST SIDE. The Great Synagogue occupies an area of Pest referred to as the Jewish Quarter. Today, it's an area that's experiencing a significant degree of regeneration, and there are plans to pedestrianise certain streets and build modern apartment blocks. During the Second World War, however, it was the area to which 70,000 Jews were forcibly moved by the Germans and Hungarians. Nearly a quarter of these people died before liberation from the ghetto came in the shape of the Russians in 1945. This synagogue is one of the largest in Europe and its exterior curves, lofty interior and 3000 capacity form an impressive sight. To the rear of the synagogue is a cemetery and a steel sculpture of a willow (the Memorial Tree); on the leaves are the names of those who perished during the Holocaust. It's a sombre sight and one that you'll never forget making it an essential part of any itinerary.
Magyar Nemzeti Galéria
Buda Palace Szent György tér 2, Budapest 1250 • +36 20 439 7325Description:
The Buda Palace occupies a vast space on the Buda skyline, overlooking the Danube river. Within this impressive building is the Hungarian National Gallery. For those looking to gain an appreciation of the country's history through art, this is the place to visit: the permanent exhibitions are organised in relation to eras (the Communist work is particularly interesting in its very starkness when compared with the lush oils of the 19th century). The interior, with high ceilings and ornate mouldings, is just as striking as the work collected within more than 6,000 paintings and 11,000 drawings. And once you've had your fill of Hungarian art (and it will take quite some time), you can step outside and admire the palace's architecture up-close, as well as the Pest skyline from afar.
Magyar Nemzeti Múzeum
Múzeum krt 14-16 Budapest 1088 • +36 1 338 2122Description:
BUDA SIDE. The Hungarian National Museum is a work of art in itself: pillars reaching towards the sky; carvings on the facade. Built in the early 19th century, the museum houses a wealth of historic artifacts that will deepen your appreciation of the national culture. The permanent exhibition spans from the age of the Arpads and the Turkish invasion, through World War II and the fall of Communism. The museum also offers regular temporary exhibitions that are still underpinned by the national history but give a different perspective on the country's heritage.
Szepmuveszeti
Dózsa György út 41 Budapest 1146 • +36 1 469 7100Description:
PEST SIDE. Opened in 1906, this stunning neo-classical building is situated opposite Heroes' Square. An expanse of steps leads up to the pillared entrance, and the interior is all marble floors, more pillars and masterpieces. There's a wealth of exhibitions to choose from, including Egyptian right through to modern art, and temporary exhibitions have included Picasso and modern photographers. The museum stays opens late (9:30pm) on certain Thursday evenings, when patrons enjoy live jazz and guided tours.
Szobor Park
corner of Balatoni út and Szabadkai utca Budapest 1223 • +36 1 424 7500Description:
BUDA SIDE. Also known as 'Memento Park', this area gives unique insight into the 44 years of Communism. Imposing stone monuments denote 'liberation,' and propoganda sculptures depict friendship between the Hungarians and the Soviets. Chiselled statues of Lenin, Marx and Engels overshadow visitors, but there's an eeriness to the celebratory nature of these statues that no simple picture in a book could communicate as effectively as a visit. The collection of such sculptures is fascinating but also telling is the location of this park: right on the outskirts of Budapest. It's as if the people have swept aside these remnants so as not to be reminded of the dictatorship. A direct bus runs daily from Deák tér at 11am, and also at 3pm during July and August; cost is HUF 3950. Alternatively, take the metro out of Budapest and then catch a public bus heading for Etele tér.
Terror Háza Múzeum
Andrássy út 60 Budapest 1062 • +36 1 374 2631Description:
PEST SIDE. This award-winning museum opened in 2002 as a monument to those who struggled in the harsh regimes that have unsettled Hungary. Most moving is the fact that this museum occupies the former headquarters of the Arrow Cross Party, more generally referred to as the Hungarian Nazis. A sombre orchestral score accompanies your journey through certain reconstructed rooms of the building, but it's down in the basement where the eeriness is the most complete. Here are reconstructed prison cells where those captured by the secret police were tortured. The experience is uniquely affecting. Footage is shown in the screening rooms; installations are used as memorials; and an actual tank occupies the ground floor. The propaganda room, a veritable colour-explosion of posters with angular figures with fists in the air, also conveys a sense of the benign influence the government exerted that then often led to more sinister actions. Metro to Vörösmarty utca station or tram 4 or 6 to Oktogon.
To see, to do in Budapest
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