9 of the best Budapest landmarks and historic sights

9 of the best Budapest landmarks and historic sights

Uncover top historic landmarks in Budapest, from the iconic Buda Castle to the sprawling Hungarian Parliament.

Nestled in the Carpathian Basin, Hungary’s capital, Budapest, has many historic landmarks to discover — from ancient to mere centuries old. Budapest is a city with history, proudly displaying its roots everywhere, from Parliament’s steps to St. Stephen’s dome height. Discover the top natural landmarks in Budapest, such as Gellért Hill, and admire the incredible architecture at historic sights like the Great Synagogue and the iconic Buda Castle. Whether visiting on a short city break or exploring Budapest with kids, here are 8 of the top Budapest landmarks to show you the best this European city offers.

Budapest’s landmarks at a glance

Most-visited landmarks: Buda Castle Complex and Fisherman’s Bastion

Tallest historic buildings: Hungarian Parliament Building (96m) and St. Stephen’s Basilica (96m). The matching heights symbolize the balance between church and state.

Largest historic landmark: Hungarian Parliament Building

Most iconic green space: Gellért Hill

Historic landmarks in Budapest

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Wander through Buda Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and iconic landmark overlooking the Danube in Budapest.

1. Buda Castle

Rising majestically above the Danube, Buda Castle crowns Castle Hill as one of the most famous landmarks in Budapest. Initially built in the 12th century, it underwent Baroque transformations in the 17th century and was later rebuilt after World War II. During reconstruction, medieval castle ruins were uncovered, adding to its allure.

Insider tip

The castle complex houses three cultural treasures - the National Art Gallery, the Budapest History Museum, and the National Library. Each requires separate admission, but the history-rich experience is worth every cent. If you’re seeking more history, head to Building E for the unearthed old castle walls or go underground for the Buda Castle Cave tour.

Address and opening hours

Szent György tér, 1014 Budapest. Art Gallery open Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM. History Museum open Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM, March–October; 10:00 AM–4:00 PM, November–February. National Gallery open Tuesday to Thursday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM; Fridays, 9:00 AM–7:00 PM; Saturdays, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM.

Explore the Buda Castle complex

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photo: KITSUN YUEN

Visit the Great Synagogue, one of Budapest's most significant historic landmarks and a symbol of its Jewish heritage.

2. Dohány Street Synagogue

The Dohány Street Synagogue is Europe’s largest Jewish house of worship. It was built in 1859 in the city’s Jewish Quarter, which later became the Budapest Ghetto during WW2. Tour the complex to see standout features such as Romantic and Moorish Revival architecture, dark wood carvings, and rose and gold repeating designs. The memorials and museum are somber yet uplifting community spots.

Highlights

  • A large rose window and oversized organ decorate the interior.
  • Imre Varga’s Holocaust Tree of Life memorial covers the yard's mass grave.
  • The museum displays everything from handwritten books to a third-century Jewish gravestone.

Address and opening hours

Dohány u. 2, 1074 Budapest. Open Sunday to Thursday, 10:00 AM–4:00 PM; Fridays, 10:00 AM–2:00 PM.

Visit Dohány Street Synagogue to learn about Budapest’s Jewish history

Architectural landmarks in Budapest

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Explore the Fisherman’s Bastion, a neo-Gothic landmark in Budapest offering some of the best city views.

3. Fisherman’s Bastion

This seven-tower monument honors Hungary’s 1,000th year. Constructed between 1895 and 1902, it perches on Castle Hill and gives panoramic river views of Széchenyi Chain Bridge and the Hungarian Parliament. Each tower of Fisherman’s Bastion adds to its fairytale essence, with stones framing some of the best Budapest photography shots.   

Insider tip

You can enjoy views from the lower terrace for free but need a ticket for the upper balconies. If you love late-night city adventures, get upper-terrace views for free from 9:00 PM to 9:00 AM.

Address and opening hours

Castle Hill, 1014 Budapest. Open 24 hours.

Go on a walking tour of Fisherman’s Bastion

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Step inside the Hungarian Parliament, a world-famous landmark of Budapest with magnificent design and history.

4. Hungarian Parliament Building

One of the best architectural landmarks in Budapest, the Hungarian Parliament Building stands at 96 m (315 feet) to mark the year of Hungary’s formation, 896 A.D. The sprawling Gothic Revival building faces the Danube River and features statues of Hungarian leaders, gargoyles, and more windows than you could count.

Highlights

  • The grand staircase, decked out in red, takes you up 96 steps.
  • Head to the Dome Hall to see St. Stephen’s Holy Crown of Hungary, scepter, and orb.
  • Parliament has 691 rooms, many with gold decorations and intricate carvings.

Address and opening hours

Kossuth Lajos tér 1-3, 1055 Budapest. Open daily, 8:00 AM–6:00 PM.

Book a guided tour of the Hungarian Parliament Building

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photo: Vasyatka1

Visit the Postal Savings Bank Building, a masterpiece of Budapest’s Art Nouveau architecture by Ödön Lechner.

5. Postal Savings Bank Building

Decked out in colorful porcelain tiles and folk art designs — including honey bees and hives — the Postal Savings Bank Building has some of the most unique architecture in Budapest. Part of the Secessionist Art Nouveau style, this 1901 building pays homage to the region's natural features and creative heart. To capture views of the roof, stand on Nagysándor József Street or head to St. Stephen’s Basilica balcony. 

Highlights

  • Look for the dragons and serpents on the roof edges.
  • Mosaic flowers add creative accents.
  • You can’t miss the bold green and yellow roof tiles from the local Zsolnay Porcelain Factory.

Address and opening hours

Budapest, Hold u. 4, 1054 Budapest. Open Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM.

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Marvel at the grandeur of St. Stephen’s Basilica, one of Budapest's most historic and beautifully adorned landmarks.

6. St. Stephen’s Basilica

Named for Hungary’s first king-turned-saint, St. Stephen, St. Stephen’s Basilica is ornate from top to bottom. Its Neoclassical design, double bell towers, and large central dome are an impressive sight along St. Stephen’s Square. You’ll see many deep red and gold tones, from the Carrera marble to the painted ceilings and recessed panels.

Insider tip

You need a ticket to go inside. Admission also includes the second-floor treasury and balcony walkaround facing Buda Castle. In the church's altar, don’t miss the Holy Dexter — St. Stephen’s mummified right hand.

Address and opening hours

Szent István tér 1, 1051 Budapest. Open Monday to Saturday, 9:00 AM–5:45 PM; Sundays, 1:00 PM–5:45 PM.

Visit St. Stephen’s Basilica

Natural landmarks in Budapest

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photo: lacimolnar

Visit the Liberty Statue on Gellért Hill for breathtaking views of Budapest and the Danube River.

7. Gellért Hill

Standing 771 feet high, Gellért Hill, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, towers over the Danube River. This impressive landmark has witnessed centuries of history, from Celtic settlements to Ottoman watchtowers. Today, winding paths lead you to panoramic views of Budapest's skyline, where you can spot architectural landmarks like Matthias Church, Buda Castle, and the Chain Bridge.

Insider tip

The best way to experience Gellért Hill is to walk its winding paths. Many are steep but paved and have scenic views. Park along Szirtes Street for a shorter walk to the top. 

Address

1016 Budapest. Hill open 24 hours.

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Discover the tranquility of Margaret Island, a natural gem and beloved landmark in the heart of Budapest.

8. Margaret Island

Nestled in the Danube River, Margaret Island is a slice of nature close to the city. This island is covered in ancient oaks and poplars, along with medieval ruins from Franciscan and Dominican churches. You’ll also find Japanese gardens and monuments like the Water Tower, Music Well, Fountain, and Artists’ Promenade. Walk or jog its perimeter path to enjoy some of the best views in Budapest

Insider tip

Many paths are steep but paved and have scenic views. Park along Szirtes Street for a shorter walk to the top. 

Address

1138 Budapest. Open 24 hours.

See Margaret Island on a boat cruise

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Relax in the historic Széchenyi Thermal Bath, a famous landmark showcasing Budapest's rich spa culture.

9. Széchenyi Thermal Baths

Opened in 1913, the Széchenyi Thermal Baths are a famous natural landmark in Budapest. The Neo-Baroque-style baths feature thermal mineral water ranging from 64°F to 100°F (18°C to 38°C) in the 15 indoor pools. Outdoors, one pool uses thermal water. Step into history as you soak in the mineral-rich waters that come from two nearby artesian wells. 

Insider tip

Bring flip-flops, a bathing suit, and a towel. Arrive early for the best spots, and consider a changing room (cabin) to store your belongings, especially if traveling in groups.

Address and opening hours

Állatkerti krt. 9-11, 1146 Budapest. Open Monday to Friday, 7:00 AM–8:00 PM; Saturday and Sunday, 8:00 AM–8:00 PM.

FAQs

What are the best districts for historic landmarks?

Head to District 1 for historic Budapest landmarks such as Buda Castle, Gellért Hill, and Fisherman’s Bastion. In District 5, you’ll see St. Stephen’s Basilica, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and the Postal Savings Bank Building. 

Are there any free Budapest landmarks?

Yes. Natural landmarks in Budapest like Gellért Hill and Margaret Island are free, as is the lower level of Fisherman’s Bastion. You can also walk around Castle Hill for free and enjoy the scenic views and centuries-old buildings.

Where is the best view of the Hungarian Parliament Building?

Get great shots of the Hungarian Parliament Building at the green space near the monument in Kossuth Lajos Square. 

What are the best historic landmarks in Budapest to visit with children?

Historic landmarks in Budapest with plenty of paths and sights for kids and families to explore include Fisherman's Bastion, Gellért Hill, and the Buda Castle Complex. Take the funicular or join a Gellért Hill Cave tour.

What are the most famous landmarks in Budapest?

St. Stephen’s Basilica, Buda Castle, Hungarian Parliament Building, and Fisherman’s Bastion are the most famous landmarks in Budapest. They’re also part of the city’s UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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