Top 25 Attractions in Budapest: Exploring the Heart of Hungary

Budapest, the vibrant capital of Hungary, is a city that effortlessly combines the old with the new, tradition with innovation, and history with modernity. It’s a place where architectural marvels from centuries past stand tall amidst trendy cafes and bustling markets. As you wander through its cobblestone streets, you’ll be captivated by the grandeur of its imperial past and inspired by its dynamic present. Budapest promises an unforgettable journey for every traveler with its rich culture, fascinating history, delectable cuisine, and stunning landscapes. This guide will take you on a thrilling exploration of Budapest’s top 25 must-see attractions that will make your heart flutter with excitement. Get ready to discover this enchanting city on the banks of the Danube River!

Buda Castle

Perched high above the city on Castle Hill, Buda Castle is one of the most iconic Budapest attractions. This historic castle complex dates back to the 13th century and has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1987. It offers breathtaking views of the Danube River and the Pest side of the city. The castle is home to the Hungarian National Gallery and Budapest History Museum, filled with fascinating exhibits showcasing Hungary’s rich history.

Opening Hours: The courtyards of Buda Castle are open 24 hours a day, all year round. However, the museums within have specific operating hours. The Hungarian National Gallery operates from Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM. The Budapest History Museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, between 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM in winter (November to February), and extends until 6:00 PM in summer (March to October).

Location: Buda Castle is at Szent György tér 2, Budapest, Hungary.

Routes: You can reach Buda Castle via bus line 16 from Deák Ferenc tér or by taking the funicular railway from Széchenyi Chain Bridge.

Accessibility: The castle grounds are wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators available. However, some areas within museums may be challenging for people with mobility issues due to historical architectural constraints.

Tickets & Costs: Entrance to the castle courtyards is free. However, tickets for museums inside vary – the Hungarian National Gallery costs around €8 for adults. The Budapest History Museum charges about €6 for an adult ticket.

Parking: Parking is limited around Buda Castle due to its hilltop location, but there are public parking lots at Szentháromság tér and Dísz tér where you can park your vehicle for a fee.

Best Time To Visit: While Buda Castle can be visited throughout the year, spring and autumn offer pleasant weather ideal for exploring. Early morning or late afternoon visits provide stunning sunrise or sunset views over Budapest.

Hungarian Parliament Building

The Hungarian Parliament Building, a stunning example of Neo-Gothic architecture, is one of the most popular Budapest attractions. Its distinctive red dome and intricate detailing make it a sight to behold. The third-largest parliament building in the world, it houses countless rooms and hallways filled with artistic and historical treasures.

Opening Hours: The Parliament Building is open for guided tours daily from 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (April to October) and 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (November to March).

Location: The Hungarian Parliament Building is at Kossuth Lajos tér 1-3, Budapest.

Routes: You can reach the Parliament Building via metro line M2, tram lines 2 or 2A, or bus lines 15 or 115 to Kossuth Lajos tér station.

Accessibility: The building is wheelchair accessible, with elevators available. However, for security reasons, people with mobility issues must inform the Visitor Centre about their visit.

Tickets & Costs: Ticket prices for guided tours vary depending on nationality and age but generally range from €6 to €12. It’s advisable to book your tickets online in advance due to high demand.

Parkings: There are several paid parking lots nearby, like Lipótváros Parking Garage or Apcoa Parking Hungary, close to Szabadság tér.

Best Time To Visit: The Hungarian Parliament Building can be visited year-round. However, it’s lovely when illuminated at night. For fewer crowds, consider visiting early in the morning or late afternoon.

Chain Bridge

The Széchenyi Chain Bridge, with its majestic stone lions and massive iron chains, is a quintessential symbol of Budapest. This suspension bridge connects Buda and Pest across the River Danube and offers stunning cityscape views. It is one of the most photographed Budapest attractions.

Opening Hours: The Chain Bridge is open 24 hours a day, all year round.

Location: The Chain Bridge spans the River Danube between Clark Ádám tér (Buda side) and Széchenyi István tér (Pest side).

Routes: You can reach the bridge via tram lines 2 or 19 or by metro line M1 to Vörösmarty tér station on the Pest side. On the Buda side, you can take bus line 16 to Clark Ádám tér station.

Accessibility: The Chain Bridge is fully accessible for pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles. However, it may be challenging for people with mobility issues due to its steep incline and absence of elevators or ramps.

Tickets & Costs: Walking or cycling across the bridge is not expensive.

Parking: Several paid parking lots are on both sides of the river near the bridge. These include Lipót Garage on Eötvös utca (Pest side) and Buda Castle Parking on Ybl Miklós tér (Buda side).

Best Time To Visit: While you can visit any time, sunset or nighttime offers an enchanting view as Budapest’s landmarks light up around you. It’s also less crowded during these times.

Fisherman’s Bastion

Fisherman’s Bastion, with its fairy-tale-like towers and turrets, offers some of the best panoramic views over Budapest. Built in the 19th century to celebrate the 1000th anniversary of the Hungarian state, this Neo-Romanesque monument is one of the most visited attractions in Budapest.

Opening Hours: The Fisherman’s Bastion is open 24 hours a day, all year round. However, the upper towers have specific opening hours – from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM between March and October and from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM between November and February.

Location: The Fisherman’s Bastion is located at Szentháromság tér, Budapest.

Routes: You can reach Fisherman’s Bastion via bus line 16 from Deák Ferenc tér or by taking the funicular railway from Széchenyi Chain Bridge.

Accessibility: While most areas are accessible for people with mobility issues, please note that there are some steps leading up to the upper towers. 

Tickets & Costs: Entrance to the lower terraces is free. However, there is a small fee (around €3) for accessing the upper towers. 

Parking: Parking is limited around Fisherman’s Bastion due to its hilltop location, but there are public parking lots at Szentháromság tér and Dísz tér where you can park your vehicle for a fee.

Best Time To Visit: Early morning or late afternoon visits provide stunning sunrise or sunset views over Budapest. It’s also less crowded during these times.

Stephen’s Basilica

St. Stephen’s Basilica, named after the first King of Hungary, is a stunning neoclassical cathedral and one of Hungary’s most significant religious buildings. Its imposing structure and beautiful interiors make it a must-visit Budapest attraction.

Opening Hours: The Basilica is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on weekdays, from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM on Saturdays, and from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM on Sundays.

Location: St. Stephen’s Basilica is at Szent István tér 1, Budapest.

Routes: You can reach the Basilica via metro line M3 to Arany János utca station or by taking bus line number 15 or tram number 2 to Széchenyi István tér.

Accessibility: The Basilica is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators available.

Tickets & Costs: Entrance to the church is free, but there’s a suggested donation of HUF 200 (around €0.60). There’s also an additional fee (HUF 500 or around €1.50) if you wish to climb up to the panorama lookout in the dome.

Parkings: There are several paid parking lots nearby, like Lipótváros Parking Garage or Apcoa Parking Hungary, close to Szabadság tér.

Best Time To Visit: The best time to visit St. Stephen’s Basilica is during mass, when you can enjoy the organ music and serene atmosphere. For fewer crowds, consider visiting early in the morning or late afternoon.

Heroes Square

Heroes Square, or Hősök here, is one of the most important squares in Budapest, noted for its iconic statue complex featuring the Seven Chieftains of the Magyars and other influential national leaders. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a must-see attraction in Budapest for its historical significance and grandeur.

Opening Hours: Heroes’ Square is an outdoor public square open 24 hours a day, all year round.

Location: Heroes’ Square is located at Hősök tere, Budapest.

Routes: You can reach Heroes’ Square via metro line M1 to Hősök tere station or by taking bus line number 20E, 30A, or 105.

Accessibility: The square is fully accessible for people with mobility issues as it’s a flat and open space.

Tickets & Costs: There’s no cost to visit Heroes’ Square.

Parking: Several paid parking lots are nearby, such as Zoo Parking or Olof Palme House Parking.

Best Time To Visit: The square can be visited at any time of the day. However, early morning or late afternoon visits provide beautiful lighting for photography. It’s also less crowded during these times.

Margaret Island

Margaret Island, nestled in the heart of the Danube River between Buda and Pest, is a tranquil getaway within the bustling city. This lush, green oasis offers many attractions, including a zoo, thermal baths, an open-air theater and cinema, and beautifully landscaped parks. It’s a favorite among locals and tourists for leisurely strolls, picnics, and outdoor activities.

Opening Hours: Margaret Island is open 24 hours a day, all year round.

Location: Margaret Island is located in the middle of the Danube River between Margaret Bridge (Margit híd) on the south and Árpád Bridge (Árpád híd) on the north.

Routes: You can reach Margaret Island via tram lines 4 or 6 to Margit híd station, followed by a short walk across Margaret Bridge. Alternatively, you can take bus line 26, which runs through the island.

Accessibility: The island is fully accessible for people with mobility issues, with well-paved paths suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.

Tickets & Costs: There’s no cost to enter Margaret Island, but some attractions, like Palatinus Thermal Bath, have entry fees.

Parking: Car access is restricted on the island, but there are paid parking lots at both ends near Margaret Bridge and Árpád Bridge.

Best Time To Visit: While it can be enjoyed year-round, spring to autumn are enjoyable times to visit when you can fully use its outdoor facilities.

Matthias Church

Matthias Church, or Mátyás-templom, is a stunning Roman Catholic church in the heart of the Castle District. Its unique diamond-patterned roof tiles and elegant spires make it one of the most striking Budapest attractions. The church has witnessed numerous coronations and weddings throughout history, adding to its allure.

Opening Hours: Matthias Church is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on weekdays, from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM on Saturdays, and from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM on Sundays.

Location: Matthias Church is located at Szentháromság tér 2, Budapest.

Routes: You can reach Matthias Church via bus line 16 from Deák Ferenc tér or by taking the funicular railway from Széchenyi Chain Bridge.

Accessibility: Most areas of the church are accessible for people with mobility issues, but please note that there are some steps inside.

Tickets & Costs: An admission fee of approximately €6 for adults and €3 for students and seniors. 

Parking: Parking is limited around Matthias Church due to its hilltop location, but there are public parking lots at Szentháromság tér and Dísz tér where you can park your vehicle for a fee.

Best Time To Visit: Early morning visits offer a quieter experience. Consider attending one of their organ concerts held regularly for a special treat.

Gellért Hill & Citadel

Gellért Hill, crowned by the Citadel and the Liberty Statue, offers some of the best panoramic views over Budapest. The hill is named after Saint Gerard, who was thrown to death from the mountain. The Citadel, built initially as a fortress in the 19th century, is now a symbol of freedom and one of the most visited attractions in Budapest.

Opening Hours: Gellért Hill and Citadel are open 24 hours a day, all year round.

Location: Gellért Hill & Citadel are located at Citadella sétány, Budapest.

Routes: You can reach Gellért Hill via bus line number 27 from Móricz Zsigmond körtér or by taking bus number 7 or tram number 18 to Szent Gellért tér followed by a steep walk up the hill.

Accessibility: The paths leading up to Gellért Hill can be steep and unsuitable for people with mobility issues. However, once at the top, most areas are flat and accessible.

Tickets & Costs: Visiting Gellért Hill or Citadel costs no cost.

Parking: A paid parking lot is at the top of Gellért Hill near Citadella sétány.

Best Time To Visit: Sunrise or sunset visits offer breathtaking views over Budapest. It’s also less crowded during these times.

Dohány Street Synagogue

The Dohány Street Synagogue, also known as the Great Synagogue, is the largest Synagogue in Europe and the second-largest in the world. This architectural masterpiece, built in a Moorish Revival style, is a place of worship and houses the Hungarian Jewish Museum and Holocaust Memorial Room, making it an important cultural and historical Budapest attraction.

Opening Hours: The Synagogue is open from Sunday to Thursday, with varying hours depending on the season. Generally, it’s available from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM during the high season (April to October) and until 4:00 PM during the low season (November to March). It’s closed on Fridays and Saturdays for Sabbath.

Location: The Dohány Street Synagogue is at Dohány utca 2, Budapest.

Routes: You can reach the Synagogue via metro line M2 to Astoria station, bus line 7, or tram number 47 to Astoria.

Accessibility: The main areas of the Synagogue are accessible to people with mobility issues. However, some parts of the museum may not be due to architectural constraints.

Tickets & Costs: An admission fee includes entry to the Synagogue, museum, and memorial park. Prices vary between €10-15 depending on age and concessions.

Parking: Several paid parking lots are nearby, like Car Park Astoria or Q-Park Zenit Parking Garage.

Best Time To Visit: It’s less crowded early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Note that it’s closed for Jewish holidays, so check before your visit.

Hungarian State Opera House

The Hungarian State Opera House is a magnificent Neo-Renaissance building and one of the most beautiful opera houses in the world. Known for its superb acoustics, it hosts a variety of performances, including opera, ballet, and classical concerts. Its opulent interiors are adorned with frescoes, sculptures, and gold detailing, making it a must-visit Budapest attraction.

Opening Hours: The Opera House is open for guided tours daily from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Performance times vary depending on the schedule.

Location: The Hungarian State Opera House is at Andrássy út 22, Budapest.

Routes: You can reach the Opera House via metro line M1 to Opera station or by bus line 105 to Andrássy út (Opera).

Accessibility: The main areas of the opera house are accessible to people with mobility issues. However, please note that due to architectural constraints, some areas may not be fully accessible.

Tickets & Costs: Guided tour tickets cost approximately €13 for adults and €6.5 for students. Performance ticket prices vary greatly depending on the show and seating choice.

Parking: Several paid parking lots are nearby, like Ó Street Parking Garage or Lipótváros Parking Garage.

Best Time To Visit: A guided tour allows you to explore the stunning interiors during the daytime, but attending a performance offers an unforgettable experience under its gilded vaults.

Széchenyi Thermal Bath

Széchenyi Thermal Bath, located in the heart of City Park, is Europe’s most enormous medicinal bath. Built in a beautiful Neo-Baroque style, it’s famed for its healing waters, rich in minerals. With 18 pools, including outdoor and indoor thermal baths, swimming pools, and plunge pools, it offers a unique Budapest spa experience.

Opening Hours: Széchenyi Thermal Bath is open daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

Location: The bath is located at Állatkerti krt. 9-11, Budapest.

Routes: You can reach Széchenyi Thermal Bath via metro line M1 to Széchenyi fürdő station or by taking trolleybus number 72 to Állatkert.

Accessibility: The bath is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators available. There are also unique walking frames for use in the water and a pool elevator for those with mobility issues.

Tickets & Costs: Ticket prices vary depending on the time of visit and services included but generally range from €17 to €23.

Parking: Several paid parking lots are nearby, like Zoo Parking or Heroes’ Square Parking.

Best Time To Visit: While you can visit any time of the day, early morning visits are less crowded. Also, consider experiencing a unique Budapest tradition – night bathing under the stars.

Central Market Hall

The Central Market Hall, or Nagycsarnok, is Budapest’s largest and oldest indoor market. Housed in a beautiful Neo-Gothic building, this bustling market offers various goods, from fresh produce, meats, and cheeses to Hungarian specialties like paprika and Tokaji wine. Upstairs, you’ll find stalls selling crafts, clothing, and souvenirs, making it a must-visit Budapest attraction for foodies and shoppers alike.

Opening Hours: The Central Market Hall is open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM on Mondays, 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM from Tuesday to Friday, and 6:00 AM to 3:00 PM on Saturdays. It’s closed on Sundays.

Location: The market is located at Vámház krt. 1-3, Budapest.

Routes: You can reach the Central Market Hall via tram lines 2 or 47 or by metro line M4 to Fővám tér station.

Accessibility: The main areas of the market are accessible for people with mobility issues, with elevators available for use.

Tickets & Costs: There’s no cost to enter the market, but bring some cash for shopping!

Parking: Several paid parking lots are nearby, like Franklin Parking House or P+R Kelenföld Metro Station Parking.

Best Time To Visit: Early morning visits offer a less crowded experience, allowing you to take your time exploring the stalls.

Vajdahunyad Castle

Vajdahunyad Castle, located in City Park, is a unique attraction in Budapest that showcases the architectural evolution of Hungary. This fairy-tale castle, built for the 1896 Millennium Celebrations, features replicas of buildings representing different periods and styles, from Romanesque to Gothic and Baroque. It’s home to the Hungarian Agricultural Museum, surrounded by a beautiful park and boating lake.

Opening Hours: The castle grounds are open 24 hours a day, all year round. The Hungarian Agricultural Museum operates from Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM.

Location: Vajdahunyad Castle is located at Vajdahunyad vár, Budapest.

Routes: You can reach Vajdahunyad Castle via metro line M1 to Hősök tere station or take trolleybus number 72 to Állatkert.

Accessibility: The castle grounds are wheelchair accessible, with ramps available. However, some areas within the museum may be challenging for people with mobility issues due to historical architectural constraints.

Tickets & Costs: Entrance to the castle grounds is free. However, tickets for the museum inside cost around €5 for adults.

Parking: Several paid parking lots are nearby, like Zoo Parking or Heroes’ Square Parking.

Best Time To Visit: While Vajdahunyad Castle can be visited throughout the year, spring and autumn offer pleasant weather ideal for exploring. Early morning or late afternoon visits provide beautiful lighting for photography.

Museum of Fine Arts

The Museum of Fine Arts, or Szépművészeti Múzeum, is one of the most prominent museums in Budapest. It houses an impressive collection of international art spanning seven centuries, including works by renowned artists like Raphael, El Greco, Velázquez, Rembrandt, and Goya. After a recent renovation, the museum also features a stunning Romanesque Hall that’s a masterpiece.

Opening Hours: The Museum of Fine Arts is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM. It’s closed on Mondays.

Location: The museum is located at Hősök tere, Budapest.

Routes: You can reach the Museum of Fine Arts via metro line M1 to Hősök tere station or by taking bus line number 20E, 30A, or 105.

Accessibility: The museum is wheelchair accessible, with elevators available for use.

Tickets & Costs: Regular admission tickets cost around €12, but various discounts are available for students and seniors. 

Parking: Several paid parking lots are nearby, like Zoo Parking or Heroes’ Square Parking.

Best Time To Visit: Weekday mornings tend to be less crowded, allowing you to explore the exhibits at your own pace.

Andrassy Avenue & Terror Haza Museum

Andrássy Avenue, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the most iconic boulevards in Budapest. Lined with grand Neo-Renaissance mansions and luxury boutiques, it leads to Heroes’ Square and City Park. Midway down the avenue, you’ll find the House of Terror Museum or Terror Háza Múzeum. This museum memorializes the victims of Hungary’s fascist and communist regimes, offering a chilling insight into some of the darkest periods in Hungarian history.

Opening Hours: Andrássy Avenue is open 24 hours a day, all year round. The House of Terror Museum operates from Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM. It’s closed on Mondays.

Location: Andrássy Avenue & Terror Haza Museum are located at Andrássy út 60, Budapest.

Routes: You can reach Andrássy Avenue via metro line M1 to any station between Vörösmarty utca and Hősök tere. The House of Terror Museum is closest to Vorosmarty Utca station.

Accessibility: Most areas along Andrássy Avenue are accessible for people with mobility issues. The House of Terror Museum is also wheelchair accessible, with elevators available.

Tickets & Costs: There’s no cost to stroll down Andrássy Avenue. However, House of Terror Museum tickets cost around €8 for adults, with discounts available for students and seniors.

Parking: Several paid parking lots are nearby, like Lipótváros Parking Garage or Oktogon Garage.

Best Time To Visit: While you can visit any time, early morning or late afternoon walks along Andrássy Avenue offer beautiful lighting for photography. It’s also less crowded during these times.

Danube Promenade

The Danube Promenade, stretching between the Elizabeth Bridge and the Chain Bridge, offers a picturesque walk along the banks of the Danube River. This scenic riverside walkway has historic landmarks, cafes, and restaurants. It’s also home to the poignant Shoes on the Danube Bank memorial honoring the Jews who were killed during World War II.

Opening Hours: The Danube Promenade is open 24 hours a day, all year round.

Location: The promenade runs along the Pest side of the Danube River between Elizabeth Bridge and Chain Bridge.

Routes: You can reach the Danube Promenade via tram lines 2 or 2A to any station between Eötvös tér and Széchenyi István tér.

Accessibility: The promenade is fully accessible for people with mobility issues as it’s a flat, paved walkway.

Tickets & Costs: There’s no cost to stroll down the Danube Promenade.

Parkings: There are several paid parking lots nearby, like Lipótváros Parking Garage or Apcoa Parking Hungary, close to Szabadság tér.

Best Time To Visit: While you can visit any time, sunset walks offer breathtaking views as Budapest’s landmarks light up around you. It’s also less crowded during these times.

Shoes on Danube Bank

The Shoes on the Danube Bank is a powerful memorial on the edge of the Danube River. It pays tribute to the thousands of Jews shot by Arrow Cross militiamen during World War II and forced to remove their shoes before being executed at the river’s edge. The 60 pairs of iron shoes represent their lost lives and are a poignant reminder of Budapest’s tragic history.

Opening Hours: The Shoes on the Danube Bank memorial is open 24 hours a day, all year round.

Location: The memorial is along the Danube Promenade near the Parliament Building, at Id. Antall József rkp., Budapest.

Routes: You can reach the memorial via tram lines 2 or 2A to Kossuth Lajos tér station.

Accessibility: The memorial is fully accessible for people with mobility issues and is located on a flat, paved walkway.

Tickets & Costs: Visiting this outdoor public memorial is not expensive.

Parkings: There are several paid parking lots nearby, like Lipótváros Parking Garage or Apcoa Parking Hungary, close to Szabadság tér.

Best Time To Visit: While you can visit any time, early morning or late afternoon visits provide quieter moments for reflection.

House of Terror Museum

The House of Terror Museum, located on Andrássy Avenue, is a significant Budapest attraction that serves as a chilling reminder of Hungary’s oppressive past. The building was once the headquarters of the fascist Arrow Cross Party and later the communist secret police. Today, it stands as a memorial to the victims of these regimes, offering visitors a haunting journey through Hungary’s history during the 20th century.

Opening Hours: The museum operates from Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM. It’s closed on Mondays.

Location: The House of Terror Museum is at Andrássy út 60, Budapest.

Routes: You can reach the museum via metro line M1 to Vörösmarty Utca station or by taking bus line number 105 to Andrássy út (Oktogon).

Accessibility: The museum is wheelchair accessible, with elevators available for use.

Tickets & Costs: Tickets for the House of Terror Museum cost around €8 for adults, with discounts available for students and seniors.

Parking: Several paid parking lots are nearby, like Lipótváros Parking Garage or Oktogon Garage.

Best Time To Visit: Weekday mornings tend to be less crowded, allowing you to explore the exhibits at your own pace. This Budapest attraction may not be suitable for young children due to its graphic content.

Budapest Zoo & Botanical Garden

The Budapest Zoo & Botanical Garden is one of the oldest zoos in the world and a popular Budapest attraction. Home to more than 1,000 species, it offers an exciting day out for animal lovers of all ages. The zoo also features an impressive botanical garden with over 2,000 types of plants, making it a green oasis in the city’s heart.

Opening Hours: The Budapest Zoo & Botanical Garden is open daily from 9:00 AM to closing between 4:30 PM and 7:00 PM, depending on the season.

Location: The zoo is located at Állatkerti krt. 6-12, Budapest.

Routes: You can reach the zoo via metro line M1 to Széchenyi fürdő station or by taking trolleybus number 72 to Állatkert.

Accessibility: The zoo is wheelchair and stroller-friendly, with ramps. Wheelchairs can also be rented at the entrance.

Tickets & Costs: Ticket prices vary depending on age but generally range from €10 to €15. Family tickets are also available for two adults and two children at around €40.

Parking: A paid parking lot is right next to the main entrance on Állatkerti körút.

Best Time To Visit: Weekday mornings tend to be less crowded. Also, consider visiting during spring or autumn when animals are more active and the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities.

Memento Park

Memento Park, located on the outskirts of Budapest, is a unique attraction that showcases statues and monuments from Hungary’s Communist period. This open-air museum features over 40 sculptures, busts, and plaques of Lenin, Marx, and Engels. It offers a fascinating glimpse into a significant era of Hungarian history.

Opening Hours: Memento Park is open daily from 10:00 AM to sunset.

Location: The park is at Balatoni út – Szabadkai utca sarok, Budapest.

Routes: You can reach Memento Park by taking bus number 150 from Kelenföld vasútállomás metro station (M4 line) to Memento Park stop.

Accessibility: The park is fully accessible for people with mobility issues as it’s a flat and paved area.

Tickets & Costs: Tickets cost around €5 for adults, with discounts available for students and seniors.

Parking: There’s a free parking lot at the park entrance.

Best Time To Visit: While you can visit any time of the day, early morning or late afternoon visits offer softer lighting, ideal for photography. As one of the outdoor Budapest attractions, it’s best visited in fair weather conditions.

Hungarian National Museum

The Hungarian National Museum, or Magyar Nemzeti Múzeum, is a crucial Budapest attraction that houses the most extensive collection of Hungarian artifacts and exhibits worldwide. This museum provides a comprehensive overview of Hungary’s fascinating history and culture, from prehistoric finds to contemporary art.

Opening Hours: The Hungarian National Museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM. It’s closed on Mondays.

Location: The museum is located at Múzeum krt. 14-16, Budapest.

Routes: You can reach the Hungarian National Museum via metro line M3 to Kálvin tér station or bus line 15 or tram number 47 or 49 to Astoria.

Accessibility: The museum is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators available.

Tickets & Costs: Regular admission tickets cost around €6, but various discounts are available for students and seniors. 

Parking: Several paid parking lots are nearby, like Franklin Parking House or Pollack Garage.

Best Time To Visit: Weekday mornings tend to be less crowded, allowing you to explore the exhibits at your own pace. This Budapest attraction offers free admission on national holidays (March 15, August 20, and October 23), an ideal time for budget-conscious travelers.

Budapest Pinball Museum

The Budapest Pinball Museum, or Flippermuzeum, is a unique Budapest attraction that takes you on a nostalgic journey back to the golden age of arcade games. It’s home to one of Europe’s largest collections of pinball machines, with over 130 playable games from different eras. Whether you’re a gaming enthusiast or just looking for fun, this interactive museum guarantees a great time.

Opening Hours: The Pinball Museum is open from 4:00 PM to midnight from Wednesday to Friday, from 2:00 PM to midnight on Saturdays, and from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM on Sundays. It’s closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Location: The museum is located at Radnóti Miklós utca 18, Budapest.

Routes: You can reach the Pinball Museum via metro line M3 to Lehel tér station, followed by a short walk.

Accessibility: The museum is wheelchair accessible, with ramps available for use.

Tickets & Costs: Tickets cost around €10 for adults and €5 for children under 14. This includes unlimited play on all machines without needing coins!

Parking: Several paid parking lots are nearby, like Westend City Center Parking Garage or Garage Lehel.

Best Time To Visit: Weekday evenings tend to be less crowded, allowing you more freedom to explore and play the games. Remember that it’s closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Hungarian National Gallery

The Hungarian National Gallery, housed in the grand Buda Castle, is a must-visit Budapest attraction for art enthusiasts. The gallery showcases a comprehensive collection of Hungarian art from the Middle Ages to contemporary works. With over 100,000 pieces, including paintings, sculptures, and graphics, it offers an immersive journey through Hungary’s artistic history.

Opening Hours: The gallery is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM. It’s closed on Mondays.

Location: The Hungarian National Gallery is at Szent György tér 2, Budapest.

Routes: You can reach the gallery by taking bus line 16 from Deák Ferenc tér or using the funicular railway from Széchenyi Chain Bridge.

Accessibility: The gallery is wheelchair accessible, with elevators available for use. Wheelchairs can also be borrowed from the cloakroom free of charge.

Tickets & Costs: Regular admission tickets cost around €10, but various discounts are available for students and seniors. 

Parking: Parking is limited around Buda Castle due to its hilltop location, but there are public parking lots at Szentháromság tér and Dísz tér where you can park your vehicle for a fee.

Best Time To Visit: Weekday mornings tend to be less crowded, allowing you to explore the exhibits at your own pace.

Liberty Statue

The Liberty Statue, or Szabadság Szobor, is a prominent Budapest attraction atop Gellért Hill. This towering monument, visible from various points across the city, was erected in 1947 to commemorate those who sacrificed their lives for the independence of Hungary. The statue holds a palm leaf aloft as a symbol of peace.

Opening Hours: The Liberty Statue is an outdoor public monument open 24 hours a day, all year round.

Location: The Liberty Statue is located at Citadella sétány, Budapest.

Routes: You can reach the Liberty Statue via bus line number 27 from Móricz Zsigmond körtér or by taking bus number 7 or tram number 18 to Szent Gellért tér followed by a steep walk up Gellért Hill.

Accessibility: The paths leading up to the Liberty Statue can be steep and unsuitable for people with mobility issues. However, once at the top, most areas are flat and accessible.

Tickets & Costs: There’s no cost to visit the Liberty Statue.

Parking: A paid parking lot is at the top of Gellért Hill near Citadella sétány.

Best Time To Visit: Sunrise or sunset visits offer breathtaking views over Budapest. It’s also less crowded during these times.