Famous Landmarks in Hungary

Hungary, located in the heart of Central Europe, is a country rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Known for its grand architecture, picturesque landscapes, thermal baths, and vibrant capital city, Budapest, Hungary is a popular destination for travelers seeking a blend of historical exploration and modern experiences. From the grand castles of Buda to the serene lakes of the countryside, Hungary offers a wide variety of landmarks that showcase its diverse cultural heritage and stunning scenery.

Hungary’s history stretches back more than a thousand years, with influences from the Roman Empire, the Habsburg monarchy, and the Ottoman Empire. This makes the country a unique cultural mosaic, where medieval towns, baroque churches, and thermal baths coexist with modern urban life. Whether you’re strolling along the Danube River, soaking in a hot spring, or exploring centuries-old castles, Hungary provides an unforgettable journey through time and culture.

Famous Landmarks in Hungary


Top 10 Famous Landmarks in Hungary

1. Buda Castle (Budavári Palota)

Overview

Buda Castle, also known as the Royal Palace, is one of Hungary’s most iconic landmarks. Perched on Castle Hill overlooking the Danube River, Buda Castle has been a symbol of Hungarian royalty and power for centuries. Originally built in the 13th century, the castle has been expanded and renovated multiple times, reflecting various architectural styles, from Gothic to Baroque. Today, it houses several museums, including the Hungarian National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum, making it a cultural and historical treasure trove.

Location

Located in Budapest, on the western side of the Danube River, in the Castle District.

Ticket Price

  • General Admission: Free to explore the castle grounds; museum entry fees range from HUF 2,000 to HUF 4,000 ($5 to $10 USD).

Nearby Airports

  • Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) – about 22 km from Buda Castle.

Railway Stations

  • Budapest-Déli Railway Station – about 2 km from the castle, accessible by bus or walking.
  • Széll Kálmán tér (Metro Line 2) – a short walk or funicular ride from the castle.

Special Attention

  • The castle grounds are free to explore, but you’ll need to pay admission to enter the museums.
  • The views from Fisherman’s Bastion, near Buda Castle, are some of the best in Budapest, especially at sunset.

2. Parliament Building (Országház)

Overview

Hungary’s Parliament Building is one of the largest and most impressive legislative buildings in the world. Located on the banks of the Danube River in Budapest, this Neo-Gothic masterpiece is a symbol of the country’s national pride and political history. The building features stunning architectural details, including spires, arches, and a grand dome. Inside, visitors can see the Holy Crown of Hungary, along with richly decorated chambers and grand staircases. The Parliament Building is a must-visit for anyone interested in architecture and history.

Location

Located on the eastern side of the Danube River, in central Budapest.

Ticket Price

  • General Admission: HUF 6,700 ($18 USD) for adults, HUF 3,500 ($9 USD) for EU citizens.
  • Guided tours are available in several languages.

Nearby Airports

  • Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) – about 20 km from the Parliament Building.

Railway Stations

  • Nyugati Railway Station – about 1 km from the Parliament, accessible by metro (Line 3).
  • Kossuth Lajos tér (Metro Line 2) – located right next to the Parliament Building.

Special Attention

  • Book your tickets online in advance, as tours often sell out, especially in the summer months.
  • The Parliament is illuminated at night, making for stunning photo opportunities from the opposite side of the river.

3. Fisherman’s Bastion (Halászbástya)

Overview

Fisherman’s Bastion is one of Budapest’s most picturesque landmarks, offering panoramic views of the Danube River, the Parliament Building, and the Pest side of the city. Built between 1895 and 1902, this Neo-Romanesque terrace is located on Castle Hill, near Buda Castle. Its name comes from the fishermen who were once responsible for defending this part of the city walls during the Middle Ages. Fisherman’s Bastion features seven towers, representing the seven Magyar tribes that founded Hungary, and its fairy-tale architecture is a favorite spot for tourists and photographers.

Location

Located in Budapest, on the Buda side of the Danube, near Buda Castle.

Ticket Price

  • General Admission: Free to access most of the Bastion, but HUF 1,000 ($3 USD) for entry to the upper towers.

Nearby Airports

  • Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) – about 22 km from Fisherman’s Bastion.

Railway Stations

  • Széll Kálmán tér (Metro Line 2) – about 1 km from Fisherman’s Bastion, accessible by bus or walking.
  • Budapest-Déli Railway Station – about 2 km away, accessible by public transport.

Special Attention

  • For the best views of Budapest, visit at sunrise or sunset when the light casts a golden glow over the city.
  • The nearby Matthias Church, with its colorful roof tiles, is another must-see attraction right next to the Bastion.

4. Széchenyi Thermal Bath

Overview

The Széchenyi Thermal Bath is one of the largest and most famous thermal bath complexes in Europe. Located in Budapest’s City Park, the bathhouse is renowned for its grand Neo-Baroque architecture and its medicinal thermal waters, which come from natural hot springs beneath the city. Visitors can relax in the outdoor and indoor pools, enjoy a variety of saunas and steam rooms, or indulge in therapeutic massages. The bathhouse is open year-round, and the outdoor pools are particularly popular in the winter, when you can bathe in the warm water while surrounded by cold air.

Location

Located in Budapest, within City Park (Városliget).

Ticket Price

  • General Admission: HUF 6,200 ($17 USD) for a full-day pass.
  • Locker and cabin rentals are available for an additional fee.

Nearby Airports

  • Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) – about 20 km from Széchenyi Thermal Bath.

Railway Stations

  • Keleti Railway Station – about 2.5 km from the baths, accessible by metro (Line 1).
  • Széchenyi fürdő (Metro Line 1) – the closest metro station, right next to the bathhouse.

Special Attention

  • Weekends can be busy, so it’s best to arrive early or visit on weekdays for a more relaxed experience.
  • Don’t miss the “Sparty” events, where the baths are transformed into a nighttime party with music and lights.

5. Heroes’ Square (Hősök tere)

Overview

Heroes’ Square is one of the most iconic landmarks in Budapest, known for its grand monuments and statues that commemorate Hungary’s most important historical figures. At the center of the square stands the Millennium Monument, with a towering column topped by the Archangel Gabriel. Surrounding the monument are statues of the seven chieftains of the Magyar tribes and other Hungarian leaders. Heroes’ Square is also flanked by two important museums: the Museum of Fine Arts and the Kunsthalle. This monumental square is a key symbol of Hungary’s national pride and history.

Location

Located at the entrance to City Park, in central Budapest.

Ticket Price

  • General Admission: Free to visit the square.
  • Museum entry fees: HUF 3,000-4,000 ($8-$10 USD) for the Museum of Fine Arts or Kunsthalle.

Nearby Airports

  • Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) – about 20 km from Heroes’ Square.

Railway Stations

  • Keleti Railway Station – about 2 km from the square, accessible by metro (Line 1).
  • Hősök tere (Metro Line 1) – the metro station located directly next to Heroes’ Square.

Special Attention

  • Visit the square at night when it is beautifully illuminated, offering a peaceful atmosphere and great photo opportunities.
  • Heroes’ Square is a short walk from Széchenyi Thermal Bath and Vajdahunyad Castle, making it an ideal part of a City Park itinerary.

6. St. Stephen’s Basilica (Szent István Bazilika)

Overview

St. Stephen’s Basilica is the largest church in Budapest and one of the most important religious sites in Hungary. Named after Hungary’s first king, Saint Stephen, the basilica is known for its grand dome, intricate interior, and stunning panoramic views from the observation deck. The basilica houses the mummified right hand of St. Stephen, which is displayed in the church’s reliquary. Visitors can admire the ornate altars, beautiful frescoes, and impressive organ, and those brave enough can climb the 364 steps to the top of the dome for breathtaking views of Budapest.

Location

Located in central Budapest, near the Danube River.

Ticket Price

  • General Admission: Free to enter the basilica, but a donation of HUF 200 ($0.50 USD) is recommended.
  • Observation Deck: HUF 1,000 ($3 USD) for access to the dome.

Nearby Airports

  • Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) – about 20 km from St. Stephen’s Basilica.

Railway Stations

  • Nyugati Railway Station – about 1 km from the basilica, accessible by metro (Line 3).
  • Bajcsy-Zsilinszky út (Metro Line 1) – the closest metro station, a short walk from the basilica.

Special Attention

  • The basilica hosts regular classical music concerts, which are worth attending for both the music and the acoustics.
  • The dome offers one of the best views of the city, so don’t miss the climb to the top.

7. Lake Balaton

Overview

Lake Balaton, often referred to as the “Hungarian Sea,” is the largest freshwater lake in Central Europe and one of Hungary’s top vacation destinations. Surrounded by scenic hills, vineyards, and charming towns, the lake offers plenty of activities for visitors, including swimming, sailing, hiking, and wine tasting. The northern shore is known for its historic castles and wineries, while the southern shore has sandy beaches and resorts. Whether you’re looking to relax by the water, explore historical sites, or enjoy outdoor adventures, Lake Balaton has something for everyone.

Location

Located in western Hungary, about 80 km southwest of Budapest.

Ticket Price

  • General Admission: Free to access the lake; some beaches may charge a small entry fee, typically around HUF 500-1,000 ($2-$3 USD).

Nearby Airports

  • Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) – about 130 km from Lake Balaton.
  • Hévíz-Balaton Airport (SOB) – located near the western end of the lake, serving regional flights.

Railway Stations

  • Balatonfüred Railway Station – on the northern shore, connects to Budapest via frequent trains.
  • Siófok Railway Station – on the southern shore, also connected to Budapest by regular trains.

Special Attention

  • The summer months (June to August) are the busiest, so book accommodations in advance if visiting during this time.
  • Don’t miss a visit to Tihany Peninsula, which offers stunning views of the lake and has a historic abbey.

8. Esztergom Basilica

Overview

Esztergom Basilica is the largest church in Hungary and one of the most significant religious buildings in the country. Located in the town of Esztergom, the basilica sits on a hill overlooking the Danube River and the Slovak border. The church is famous for its massive dome, which dominates the skyline, as well as its stunning interior that includes one of the world’s largest altarpieces. Esztergom was the birthplace of St. Stephen and served as Hungary’s capital during the early medieval period, making the basilica an important symbol of Hungarian history and Catholicism.

Location

Located in Esztergom, about 50 km northwest of Budapest.

Ticket Price

  • General Admission: HUF 1,000 ($3 USD) for entry to the basilica; additional fees for access to the crypt and dome.

Nearby Airports

  • Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) – about 70 km from Esztergom.

Railway Stations

  • Esztergom Railway Station – connected to Budapest via regular trains.

Special Attention

  • The panoramic view from the top of the dome offers breathtaking views of both Hungary and Slovakia.
  • Combine a visit to Esztergom with a trip to nearby Visegrád and Szentendre for a full day of exploring the Danube Bend.

9. Gödöllő Palace

Overview

Gödöllő Palace, located just outside of Budapest, is one of the largest Baroque palaces in Hungary and a favorite residence of Empress Elisabeth of Austria, also known as Sisi. The palace was originally built in the 18th century and features beautifully restored rooms, grand halls, and extensive gardens. Visitors can tour the luxurious apartments of Emperor Franz Joseph and Empress Sisi, as well as explore the palace’s museum, which showcases artifacts from the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The palace is also home to cultural events and concerts throughout the year.

Location

Located in Gödöllő, about 30 km northeast of Budapest.

Ticket Price

  • General Admission: HUF 3,500 ($9 USD) for adults, HUF 2,100 ($6 USD) for students and seniors.

Nearby Airports

  • Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) – about 30 km from Gödöllő Palace.

Railway Stations

  • Gödöllő Railway Station – connected to Budapest via frequent trains and suburban rail services.

Special Attention

  • The palace gardens are free to explore and are especially beautiful in the spring and summer when the flowers are in bloom.
  • Check the schedule for concerts and cultural events held in the palace throughout the year.

10. Visegrád Citadel

Overview

The Visegrád Citadel, perched high on a hill overlooking the Danube River, is one of Hungary’s most impressive medieval fortresses. Built in the 13th century, the citadel served as a royal residence and a key defensive stronghold during the Middle Ages. Today, visitors can explore the ruins of the fortress, including its walls, towers, and dungeons, while enjoying panoramic views of the Danube Bend. The citadel also hosts medieval reenactments, jousting tournaments, and other events that bring Hungary’s medieval history to life.

Location

Located in Visegrád, about 40 km north of Budapest, in the Danube Bend region.

Ticket Price

  • General Admission: HUF 1,700 ($5 USD) for adults, HUF 850 ($2.50 USD) for students and seniors.

Nearby Airports

  • Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) – about 50 km from Visegrád.

Railway Stations

  • Nagymaros-Visegrád Railway Station – located on the opposite side of the Danube, connected to Budapest by regular trains and ferry services.

Special Attention

  • The citadel’s location offers stunning views of the Danube River, making it a perfect spot for photography and sightseeing.
  • Combine your visit with a stop at the Royal Palace of Visegrád, located at the foot of the hill.