Choose from 72 Fun Things to Do in Budapest
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Kunsthalle (Hall of Art)
Budapest's Hall of Art is a palace of contemporary artwork dating back to the 19th century. The eclectic, neoclassical style structure houses mostly temporary exhibits. Sculpture and painting are highly featured, rotating both the best in Hungarian and international contemporary works.
The hall was originally established as a part of Hungary's Millennial celebrations. it continues to be an important cultural and artistic hub for the city. Modeled on the pattern of Germany's Kunsthalles, the galleries serve both to showcase and inspire the artists of today. Both emerging and established artists are displayed side-by-side, in five to six major exhibitions each year. No matter who's on display, trends in contemporary art can be experienced with any visit.
Its interior is well lit by natural light from large windows, offset by stately columns. Special events also take place regularly, hosting both the Hungarian National Philharmonic and The Budapest Festival Orchestra.
Practical Info
Located on the south side of Heroes' Square, the Kunsthalle or Hall of Art faces the Museum of Fine Arts. To get there, take the Metro M1 to Hosok Tere. Guided tours are offered daily. The cost of entry is HUF 1400 for adults and HUF 700 for students and seniors, and it's open daily from Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 6 pm and on Thursdays from 12 to 8 pm. Closed Mondays.
Address: Dózsa György út 37, 1146, Budapest, Hungary
Hours: Tues-Sun from 10am-6pm, Thurs from 12-8pm
Admission: HUF 1800 for adults, HUF 900 for students and seniors
From $ 25
Hungarian Jewish Museum and Archives (Magyar Zsidó Múzeum es Leveltár)
Housed within the Dohány Street Synagogue complex"”Europe's largest functioning synagogue"”this museum spotlights Jewish traditions and the plight of the Jewish people in Hungary. Among the items on show are menorah, centuries-old Jewish gravestones, hand-engraved Torah scrolls, and rare manuscripts.
The Basics
There is a single admission ticket for both the Dohány Street Synagogue and the Hungarian Jewish Museum and Archives (Magyar Zsidó Múzeum es Leveltár), which are housed within the synagogue complex. With this ticket, visitors can explore the synagogue and museum at their leisure, and see the Holocaust Tree of Life Memorial, which is inscribed with the names of hundreds of thousands of Holocaust victims.
Visitors can also see the synagogue and museum on guided walking tours around Budapest's Jewish Quarter. Guides on these tours typically recount the history of Budapest's Jewish community and the role Jewish culture plays in contemporary Hungarian society.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Hungarian Jewish Museum and Archives is a must-visit for anyone with an interest in Hungarian history and Jewish culture.
- The museum is wheelchair accessible.
- Free Wi-Fi is available at the museum.
- Wear conservative clothing (avoid sleeveless tops, short skirts, or shorts) to ensure access to the synagogue. Scarves and hats (mandatory for men) are available at the entrance.
How to Get There
The museum is situated within Dohány Street Synagogue. To get there, take the M2 Metro Line to Astoria station. The Great Synagogue is less than five minutes from the station on foot.
When to Get There
The museum can be visited throughout the year. To experience it at its quietest, come for opening (10am). Alternatively, come later in the afternoon and then stick around the Jewish Quarter to see its buzzy bohemian bars and pubs fill up as night falls. Note that the Hungarian Jewish Museum is closed on Saturdays.
Exploring the Jewish Quarter
The Hungarian Jewish Museum and Archives, and the Great Synagogue are just two among many landmarks in Budapest's Jewish Quarter, which makes up part of Erzsebetváros, or the seventh district. Within walking distance of the Hungarian Jewish Museum and Archives, you'll find the Islamic-style Rumbach Street Synagogue and the art nouveau-style Kazinczy Street Synagogue, as well as a range of Jewish cafes, restaurants, and kosher bakeries.
Address: Dohány utca 2, Budapest, Hungary
Admission: Varies
From $ 35
Kiscelli Museum
The Kiscelli Museum presents an eclectic array of exhibitions from Budapest's history, dating back to the early 1700s. The Baroque Sculpture Hall features sculptures from the Holy Trinity group erected outside the Matthias Church in Buda Castle in 1712. Another exhibition focuses on the press and newspapers in Budapest, with a substantial collection of printing machines, equipment and tools. It includes a printing machine known to have played a role in the Revolution of 1848, as well as the type collection of the old University Press dating back to the 18th century, book-binder's presses from the 19th and early 20th centuries and nearly 200 printing places from the 17th to the mid-20th centuries.
The Public Places and Private Spaces, 1780-1940 exhibition presents a combination of art and everyday objects from three different periods: the period of unification of Pest, Buda and Obuda (1873-1896), the period from the millennium to 1918 and the period from 1918 to 1940. The Antiquity of the Capital exhibition invokes the old Municipal Museum, presenting displays of chests, paintings, clocks, cutlery, jugs and architectural plans as thy were set up at the turn of the century.
Two final exhibitions showcase an 18th-century pharmacy and old trade signs, mostly from the 19th century.
Practical Info
The museum is open April through October from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and from November to March from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. It is closed on Mondays. Admission for adults costs 1000 HUF. From Batthiany Square in Budapest, catch the 160, 260 or 260A bus to the Margit Korhaz stop and then walk about ten minutes to the museum along Becsi Street to Kiscelli Street. Alternatively, take bus 165 from Kolosy Square to the Remetehegyi ut stop and then walk about five minutes down Kolostor Street to the museum.
Address: Kiscelli utca 108, Budapest, Hungary
Hours: April - October: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. November - March: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Admission: Adults: 1000 HUF
From $ 25
Budapest History Museum
Located in sight of the Chain Bridge on the Buda side of the Danube River, Budapest History Museum forms one wing of the Royal Palace, sharing space with the more extensive Hungarian National Gallery (Magyar Nemzeti Galeria).
The museum relates the turbulent 2,000-year history of the three towns that form Budapest "“ Buda, Pest and the oft-overlooked Óbuda "“ and there are currently five permanent exhibitions, with one covering recent Budapest history still under construction. The ruins in the basement are poorly labeled but worth persevering with as they are a mix of staircases, cellars and corridors from previous castles on the site.
There are plenty of dumpy prehistoric figures, tiled medieval stoves and Gothic statues but the highlights of the museum are the reconstructed rooms of the Royal Palace, which include the medieval chapel and the Gothic Knights' Hall. An innovative new exhibit submerges visitors in 3D film to "˜walk through' the history of the last 1,000 years.
The museum relates the turbulent 2,000-year history of the three towns that form Budapest "“ Buda, Pest and the oft-overlooked Óbuda "“ and there are currently five permanent exhibitions, with one covering recent Budapest history still under construction. The ruins in the basement are poorly labeled but worth persevering with as they are a mix of staircases, cellars and corridors from previous castles on the site.
There are plenty of dumpy prehistoric figures, tiled medieval stoves and Gothic statues but the highlights of the museum are the reconstructed rooms of the Royal Palace, which include the medieval chapel and the Gothic Knights' Hall. An innovative new exhibit submerges visitors in 3D film to "˜walk through' the history of the last 1,000 years.
Practical Info
English-language audio-guides and English-language guided tours are available. Opening hours are Tuesday-Sunday 10am-6pm (4pm November through February). Admission is discounted with the Budapest Card. Bus no 16 from Deák ter or the Sikló funicular from Clark ÃÂdám ter by the Chain Bridge.
Address: Szent György ter 2, Budapest, Hungary
Hours: Castle: Mar1-Oct31 Tue-Sun 10am-6pm (closed Mon), Nov1-Feb28 Tue-Sun 10am-4pm (closed Mon).
Admission: Castle: Adult: 1500 HUF; Student/Senior 750 HUF
From $ 25
Zsolnay Cultural Quarter
An exquisite mix of old and new Hungarian architecture, the Zsolnay Cultural Quarter features much of the ceramic work that the country is famous for. The area extends outward from the original Zsolnay family factory that produced much of the original porcelain, tiles, and stoneware that can be seen throughout Hungary. Visitors can view pieces being made by hand at the factory, or take a stroll on the sprawling green grounds that surround it. The Bobita Puppet Factory is another highlight for many, a foundation for Hungarian culture and art.
The quarter consists of smaller, themed sections including the Handicrafts District, the Creative District, the Children and Family District, and the University District. With its interactive activities and preservation of longstanding culture, it is widely regarded as a top cultural experience of Central and Eastern Europe. It’s a living example of the history of the area’s arts and traditions.
Practical Info
The district can be found east of the inner city of Pécs, about a ten minute walk from the city center. Buses 2, 2A, and 4 stop there. The area is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm and is free to access.
Address: 37 Zsolnay Vilmos Street, Pecs 7630, Hungary
Hours: 10 am to 5 pm
From $ 580
Vigadó Concert Hall
The name for Budapest’s second largest concert hall translates to “Place of Merriment,” a pleasant, classically designed structure along the Pest side of the Danube River. Constructed in the mid 19th century, it was built to replace a concert hall that stood in its place until it was destroyed in the War of Independence. The hall standing now was also damaged during World War II, though it underwent extensive renovations to restore the building to its original Romantic style design.
The Vigadó’s stage is primarily home to classical music and the Hungarian State Folk Ensemble, a group of dancers alongside a folk band and 14-person Gypsy band. The group regularly performs shows featuring traditional Hungarian music and dance. It’s also used extensively as an ornate ballroom for events, with art exhibitions also held in its main gallery. Statues of important Hungarian figures, as well as the Hungarian coat of arms, can be seen on the hall’s exterior.
Practical Info
Located on the eastern bank of the Danube, a ticket to one of the performances is needed to view the interior of the main hall. Otherwise, guided tours are given daily for HUF 1500 (in Hungarian) and HUF 2900 (in other languages.) Parking is available along the street Apáczai Csere János utca or in nearby garages. You can also get there by tram line 2 and metro M1/M2/M3, stopping at Vigadó tér.
Address: 1051 Budapest, Vigadó tér 2., Budapest, Hungary
Hours: Tues to Sun from 10 am - 7 pm
Admission: HUF 1500 (guided tour)
From $ 10
Aquincum Museum
For anyone with an interest in Roman history or a fascination with Roman ruins, the Aquincum Museum is a must-see while visiting Budapest. Displaying archaeological findings from the ancient Roman city of Aquincum, the museum boasts the largest collection of intact Roman era artifacts in Hungary and Central Europe. Visitors can tour both indoor exhibitions and an outdoor archaeological park, with highlights including the remains of a Roman amphitheater, sarcophagi, mosaic floors, coins, wall paintings, sculptures and a reconstructed 3rd-century water organ.
The museum also hosts a traditional Roman spring festival known as Floralia each year. Named for Flora, the Roman goddess of flowers and spring, the popular festival is held at the end of May and features gladiator shows, theater performances and children's programs, as well as plenty of eating, drinking and dancing.
Practical Info
The indoor exhibitions at the Aquincum Museum are open November-March, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and April-October, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The surrounding park is open April-October, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and November-March, only when the weather is dry and the ground is not slippery. Both are closed on Mondays. To get there, take the suburban railway from Batthiany Square to Aquincum or take bus 34, 106 or 134 from the Arpad bridge to the Zahony street bus stop. Tickets are 1600 HUF and buying a ticket to this museum, the Castle Museum or the Kiscelli Museum gives you free entry into other two for 30 days.
Address: Záhony utca 4, Budapest 1031, Hungary
Hours: Nov thru March Tue-Sun 10am-4pm & April-Oct Tue-Sun 10am-6pm
Admission: HUF1600
From $ 25
Vörösmarty Square (Vörösmarty ter)
Two blocks in from the Danube promenade at the north end of the busy shopping precinct Váci Street in central Pest, elegant pedestrianized Vörösmarty Square is named after Hungarian poet Mihály Vörösmarty; his massive marble statue stands in the center of the square. The deliciously old-fashioned Gerbeaud Café has graced the square since 1870 and it still serves the best ice creams in Budapest. Two other sides of the square have recently been redeveloped into luxury apartments and shopping malls; the modernist architecture contrasts cleverly with the old-world charm of Gerbeaud.
Budapest’s annual Christmas Market is held in Vörösmarty Square from mid-November until the end of December, when it brims over with wooden stalls selling handcrafted jewelry and cheery ceramics and the air fills with the scent of strudel and forralt bor (mulled wine). A book festival fills the square in July and in the summer buskers pour in to entertain the tourists. The square is an easy walk to major Budapest attractions such as the Chain Bridge and St Stephen’s Basilica.
Budapest’s annual Christmas Market is held in Vörösmarty Square from mid-November until the end of December, when it brims over with wooden stalls selling handcrafted jewelry and cheery ceramics and the air fills with the scent of strudel and forralt bor (mulled wine). A book festival fills the square in July and in the summer buskers pour in to entertain the tourists. The square is an easy walk to major Budapest attractions such as the Chain Bridge and St Stephen’s Basilica.
Practical Info
Metro Millennium to Vörösmarty or tram no 2 to Vigadó tér.
Address: Vörösmarty tér, Budapest 1051, Hungary
From $ 7
Liszt Ferenc Square
Named for Hungarian composer Ferenc Liszt, Budapest's Liszt Ferenc Square is a popular pedestrian square that draws locals and tourists alike. Lined with restaurants and cafes that feature outdoor seating in the summer, the square is constantly bustling with activity. Around the square you will also find several historic buildings, including a large concert hall and the Liszt Academy of Music, where you can learn about Hungary's musical history and see books and manuscripts donated by top Hungarian musicians. A bronze statue of the composer stands in the middle of the square and a tourist information booth is not far away, making it a good starting point for your visit to Budapest.
Nor far from the square, you will find Nagymezo Street, which is often referred to as Budapest's Broadway, as well as numerous theaters, clubs, high end boutiques and restaurants.
Practical Info
Ferenc Liszt Square is in the center of Budapest, just off Andrassy Avenue. If your hotel isn't within walking distance, take the Metro to either Oktogon or Opera. It is open 24 hours a day throughout the year.
Address: Ferenc Liszt Square, Budapest, Hungary
From $ 17
Robert Capa Contemporary Photography Center
Leading the charge for contemporary Hungarian photography, photographer Robert Capa famously captured the Spanish Civil War and World War II, as well as the wars in China and Vietnam, on film. He became known as one of the top war photographers of his time. Today this Budapest photography center aims to display and promote the best in documentary and modern photography from Hungary and around the world.
Housed in a beautiful Art Nouveau building, the museum is constantly bringing in new talent to showcase as well as exhibiting some of Capa's best and rarest work. Famously he remarked ""˜If your picture isnt good enough, you're not close enough." Temporary exhibitions rotate frequently, but are always showcasing the best in modern visual arts "” often with the use of multimedia and LCD projection. The walls are lined with some of the most striking and significant imagery you'll see coming from behind the lens today.
Practical Info
Located in Budapest's theater district, the photography center is open daily from 11 am to 7 pm and costs 1500 HUR for adults and 800 HUR for students and seniors. To get there, take the M1 to Opera or Oktogon stations, and walk to Nagymező utca.
Address: 9Nagymező utca 8 1065 Pest, District 6, Budapest, Hungary
Hours: Daily from 11 am to 7 pm
Admission: 1500 HUR for adults, 800 HUR for students and seniors
From $ 25
Villany
Villany is both a town and region in the southernmost part of Hungary, located at the confluence of the Great Hungarian Plain, the Baranya Hills and the Villanya Mountains. One of Hungary’s best wine regions, known primarily for its reds and roses, the winemaking traditions in Villany can be traced back to Roman times.
The Villany-Siklos wine route claims to be the first established in Hungary in 1994. Following the route allows visitors to stop at some of the country’s best vineyards in Kopar and Jammertal and to taste wine by some of Hungary’s top winemakers: Bock, Gere and Tiffan.
The town of Villany itself is charming with its Swabian style whitewashed cellars, most of which are still in use. Elsewhere in the area, visitors may enjoy the thermal baths in Harkany or the medieval castle in Siklos. The nearby city of Pecs is also a popular tourist destination, boasting a 4th century Christian necropolis that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Practical Info
The town of Villany is a three hour drive from Budapest. Buses to Villany leave from Budapest’s Nepliget bus station, with the trip taking about four hours. The town is just 40 minutes from the city of Pecs by car and trains from Pecs, Mohacs and Osijek run to Villany regularly. Visiting the wineries throughout the region is best done with your own vehicle or by booking a tour.
Address: Villany, Hungary
From $ 285
Victor Vasarely Museum
A branch of the Museum of Fine Arts, the Victor Vasarely Museum can be found in a quiet neighborhood in the Obuda area of Budapest. Housed in an 18th-century building that was originally a storage facility for the Zichy Palace, the museum was founded in 1987 when artist Victor Varasely donated his art collection to the Museum of Fine Arts. Often considered the grandfather of the optic art movement, Vasarely was born in Hungary but spent much of his life in Paris, eventually becoming a naturalized French citizen.
The Vasarely Museum holds one of four permanent exhibitions of Vasarely's works in France and Hungary. The collection includes around 400 original and reproduced works of art, ranging from early advertising graphics to a variety of op art and plastic pieces created in the 1960s and 1970s.
The museum also occasionally hosts temporary exhibitions, often in collaboration with the Open Structures Art Society and focused on a particular theme, the most recent being "Space as Space."
Practical Info
The Vasarely Museum is located at Szentlelekt ter 6 in the Obuda neighborhood of Budapest and can be reached by bus number 86. It is open Tuesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Admission for adults costs 800 HUF.
Address: Szentlelekt ter 6, Obuda District, Budapest, Hungary
Hours: Tues-Sun 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Admission: Adults: 800 HUF
From $ 25