Wednesday, October 9, 2024

Hungary 🇭🇺 | Budapest Attractions Map | Budapest itinerary

✈️ Uri Travel ✈️
🇭🇺 Budapest 🇭🇺

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Budapest is a vibrant and captivating city, full of attractions and surprisingly affordable. A stunning example of its beauty can be seen in this video of fireworks over the Danube.

👓Watch the Video👓

With proper planning, you'll find plenty of activities and attractions for children, ensuring a memorable trip for years to come.  

A few important highlights:

  1. English - Most Hungarians don’t speak English, so it’s highly recommended to plan your trip in advance using tools like Google Maps. Trust yourself, as the information centers are often commercial and focus on selling tourist attractions rather than providing genuine assistance.  
  2. Transportation - Outstanding! The public transportation system is incredibly efficient, with excellent frequency and computerized schedules that let you know exactly when and where the next train is arriving. However, be aware that signage is in Hungarian, and some stations lack ticket offices. It's a good idea to print a metro map in advance (you can use this link).  
  3. City Size - Budapest is relatively compact, and many tourist sites are within walking distance.  
  4. Drinks - Pink caps on bottles indicate water, while blue caps indicate soda.  
  5. Food - The variety is endless! Whether it’s cafés, restaurants, or different cuisines, you’ll be spoiled for choice. If you visit fast-food chains like McDonald’s, Burger King, or KFC, remember that the restroom code is printed on your receipt.  
Google Maps

Attractions list according 
to the location on the map

1. 3D Gallery Budapest
A small 3D art museum offers an hour of fun with plenty of stunning interactive exhibits.  

Tucked away near the basilica, this new 3D museum allows visitors to pose creatively with various artworks and leave with a charming 3D photo album to share with family. The entry fee includes 3–4 printed photos on the spot, with all additional photos sent via email. Around the museum, you'll find helpful floor markers and angles to guide your shots, along with example photos of past visitors for pose inspiration. This hidden gem is an excellent spot for families and a great way to spend time with children.

Arrival: Yellow metro M1 - Bajcsy-Zsilinszky station.




2. St. Stephen's Basilica
The largest church in Budapest, St. Stephen's Basilica, boasts a dome that rises 96 meters above the church floor, making it visible from nearly every corner of the city. Construction began in 1851 and, after enduring changes in architects and numerous logistical challenges, was finally completed in 1905, resulting in its unique architectural style.  

The basilica houses Hungary's most sacred relic, the "Holy Right"—the mummified right hand of Saint Stephen (István), the king who converted Hungary to Christianity in 1000 AD. During World War II, the church served as a hiding place for art treasures and national documents, although it sustained damage. It has since been restored and now features a pedestrian walkway that offers an elegant view of its exterior.  

Inside, you'll find several notable artworks, including sculptures by Alajos Stróbl and a painting by Gyula Benczúr depicting St. Stephen offering Hungary to St. Mary. For a breathtaking experience, climb the 364 steps to the dome for a panoramic view of Budapest.

Arrival: Yellow metro M1 - Bajcsy-Zsilinszky station


3. Flower ice cream - Gelarto Rosa - Ice Cream shop
A delightful experience with unique and creative flavors! This one-of-a-kind shop specializes in serving ice cream scoops arranged in a beautiful, flower-shaped design. It's a charming treat that appeals to both adults and children alike.

Arrival: Yellow metro M1 - Bajcsy-Zsilinszky station


4. The Giant Wheel of Budapest (Budapest Eye Óriáskerék)
Budapest has its own "Eye," much like London, but with a unique twist. The Budapest Eye is a mobile Ferris wheel, assembled at the end of March and operating from late April to the end of September. Standing 65 meters tall, it holds the title of the largest mobile Ferris wheel in Europe.  

If you visit Budapest during this period, you're in for a treat—a ride on the wheel is a remarkable experience. From its excellent location in Elizabeth Square, the ten-minute ride offers stunning panoramic views of Budapest's beauty. You can admire the Danube River, the iconic Chain Bridge, the lush greenery of Buda, the magnificent Basilica, and many other architectural gems nearby. It's a fantastic way to take in the city's charm from a unique perspective.

Arrival: Yellow metro M1 or red metro M2 or blue metro M3 Deák Ferenc tér station


5.  Cruise on the Danube
Located at Platform 7 on the Pest side, between the Elizabeth Bridge and the Chain Bridge, this cruise offers a guided experience with translations available in around 20 languages. Headphones are provided to ensure you can follow along throughout the journey.

Arrival: Yellow metro M1 or red metro M2 or blue metro M3 Deák Ferenc tér station


6. Gresham Palace
The Gresham Palace (Hungarian: Gresham Palota) is a stunning architectural landmark located in the heart of Budapest on Széchenyi Square (formerly Roosevelt Square). Built in the early 20th century, it was designed by architect Zsigmond Quittner for the British Gresham Insurance Company. Today, the building is owned by the Irish holding company Quinlan Private and serves as the home of the luxurious Four Seasons Hotel.

Arrival: Yellow metro M1 - Bajcsy-Zsilinszky station


7. Chain Bridge (Széchenyi Lánchíd)
The bridge, which connects Buda and Pest across the Danube River, is Budapest's first permanent bridge, opened in 1849. On the Pest side, it is anchored in Széchenyi Square (formerly Roosevelt Square), near Gresham Palace, the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, and other fine examples of Art Nouveau architecture.  

During the summer months, the bridge is closed to traffic on Sundays, transforming into a lively pedestrian walkway filled with stalls selling handicrafts, food, and other goods. Meanwhile, on the Pest riverbank, visitors can often enjoy live music performances by various bands on a small stage, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.

Arrival: Yellow metro M1 or red metro M2 or blue metro M3 Deák Ferenc tér station

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8. Shoes on the Danube (Cipők a Duna-parton)
The Shoes on the Danube Monument, unveiled in 2005, is a poignant memorial located on the banks of the Danube River in Budapest. It honors the hundreds of Jews who were murdered by the Hungarian Arrow Cross militia during the Holocaust in 1944-1945. Victims were shot and their bodies thrown into the river, and the monument's bronze shoes symbolize their tragic fate.

Arrival: Red metro M2 station Kossuth Lajos tér

👓Watch the Video👓

9. Hungarian Parliament Building (Országház)
One of Budapest's most iconic landmarks and a major tourist attraction, the Parliament Building is located in Pest, on the eastern bank of the Danube, in Kossuth Lajos Square. As the largest building in Hungary, it features a striking 96-meter-high neo-Gothic dome at its center.

Arrival: Red metro M2 station Kossuth Lajos tér


10. Statue of Liberty - (Szabadsag Szobor)
On the southern side of Gellért Hill stands the striking Liberation Monument, a 30-meter-high statue of a woman with flowing robes, symbolizing freedom. The monument was designed by Sigmund Kisplódi Strobl in 1947 to honor the Soviet soldiers who fell during the battle to liberate Budapest from Nazi occupation.  

The statue, holding a palm branch, was intended to be visible from all corners of the city. However, following the end of the communist era in 1989, a debate arose over whether the monument, which reminded many of Soviet oppression, should be removed. Ultimately, it was decided to remove references to the Soviet army from the inscription, rewording it as a vague tribute to all those who sacrificed their lives for Hungary's independence, freedom, and prosperity.  

Additionally, the statue of the Soviet soldier, once positioned at the woman's feet, was relocated to the Communist Sculpture Park on the outskirts of the city.

Arrival: green metro M4 Szent Gllert station


11. Gellert Hill (Gellért-hegy)
At 140 meters, Gellért Hill offers breathtaking views of Budapest, making it a popular observation point. The panorama from the hill is truly unique and is a UNESCO World Heritage site in itself.  

The hill is named after St. Gellért, who, according to legend, became a martyr when he was rolled down the hill by infidels after refusing to renounce Christianity. On the hill, you'll find the Citadella, a fortress built by the Habsburg emperors following their victory over the Hungarian army during the 1848-1849 revolution.  

Also located here are the Gellért Bishop statue, St. Gellért Church, and the towering Independence Statue. Note that the climb to the top from the south side is steep and requires a considerable effort, with several hundred steps to ascend. It’s not advisable to attempt the ascent with a cart.

Arrival: Green metro M4 Szent Gllert station


12. Buda Castle Cable Car (Budavári Sikló)
There are several ways to reach Buda Castle. One option is to walk, which is relatively easy compared to climbing Gellért Hill. Alternatively, you can take the Buda Castle cable car, which departs from Clark Ádám Square.

Arrival: Yellow metro M1 - Bajcsy-Zsilinszky station and cross the bridge to the Buda side
👓Watch the Video👓

13. Buda Palace (Budavári Palota)
Buda Castle is situated on the hill where Budapest was originally founded, approximately 500 meters above the Danube River. Its central location makes it a prominent landmark, attracting tourists from around the world. The castle's history dates back to the 13th century, when Mongol tribes invaded Hungary. Initially, it served as a fortified stronghold established by King Béla, later evolving into a royal palace.

Arrival: Walking from Clark Ádám Square or use the cable car


14. Houdini Museum - (The House of Houdini)
Not many people know, but Houdini was born in Budapest. You can easily reach the museum with a 45-minute walk that's suitable for children. The tour provides an English-language explanation of Houdini's life, from his childhood in Budapest to his immigration to the USA, culminating in a captivating magic show.


15. Labyrinth of Buda Castle
A network of caves located on Citadella Hill, at a depth of 16 meters, are connected to one another and illuminated by torches, creating a magical and mysterious atmosphere. The caves form a labyrinth approximately 1,200 meters long, where visitors can explore historical exhibits and stunning works of art.  

Formed millions of years ago by the movement and natural flow of water inside the Earth, the caves were used by the military for many years. During the Cold War, they were adapted to shelter around ten thousand civilians. Today, guided tours through the caves, enhanced with spectacular light and sound shows, depart every half hour.


16. Matthias Church
One of the most beautiful and impressive churches in Budapest, the Church of Our Lady (commonly known as Matthias Church), is a must-visit when you're on Citadella Hill. Built in Gothic style, construction began in the 13th century and continued into the 15th century. The church is named after King Matthias, its main patron and heir, although its official name is the Church of Our Lady.  

Interestingly, during the Turkish invasion of Budapest in 1541, the church was converted into a mosque, with the original stained-glass windows and frescoes destroyed in the process.


17. Fisherman's Bastion (Halászbástya)
 The Citadel, located on Citadella Hill, offers one of the most stunning panoramic views of the city. Its architecture blends neo-Roman and neo-Gothic styles. The name "Citadel" is derived from the nearby fish market that once existed in the area.


18. Margit Island (Margit-sziget)
Margaret Island, a 2.5 km long, 500m wide island in the heart of the Danube, covers 225 acres. Unlike other city islands, it has no residential buildings and is a popular recreational spot for locals and tourists. Connected to the city by Arpad and Margaret Bridges, the island offers hiking trails, flower gardens, swimming pools, healing baths, and charming cafes.  

Historically, it was known as "Rabbit Island" and later became a healing site for the royal family in the 19th century. Key attractions include a large fountain near Margaret Bridge, a monument marking the 100th anniversary of the unification of Buda and Pest, and the 13th-century ruins of a Dominican monastery, founded by King Bela IV.  

The island is also home to St. Michael's Chapel, featuring Hungary's largest bell, discovered in the 15th century. Visitors can enjoy the open-air theater, swim in the Platinos Baths, and explore sculptures celebrating Hungary's literary and artistic heritage.

Arrival: Blue metro M3 to pályaudvar Nyugati station


19. Budapest Children's Train (Gyermekvasút)
The Children's Train, as its name suggests, is largely operated by children aged 10-14, under the supervision of experienced railway staff. Dressed in uniform, the children assist passengers with ticketing and seating. The train, which departs from the western side of Budapest, travels 11 kilometers through the forested hills of Buda. At the final station, Givat Yanush, visitors can enjoy a scenic trip, including a view of Budapest and a ride on the Libegő cable car.

Arrival:
  • Take the M2 red metro and get off at the Szell Kalman ter (Moszkva ter) station
  • You must take tram number 59 or 61 2 stops to the Varosmajor station. Note that you get on at the station closest to the metro and not on the other side, the one coming off Buda
  • Get on the cogwheel train number 60 to the Gyermekvasut terminal (9 stops in total)
  • Exit the station, turn left along the road and continue on foot along Golfpalya Street.
  • If you want, you can get off at the rope park station - arrival with the children's train to the Csillebc station
  • Givat Yanush + the chair lift (Librgo) - pay attention to the days that the lift does not work!
  • Line 158 to the starting point

👓Watch the Video👓

20. The Aquarium of Budapest (Tropicarium)
The Aquarium of Budapest, also known as the Tropicarium, is a popular indoor attraction located in the city. Situated in the south of Budapest, it features a wide variety of tropical species, making it an exciting destination for visitors of all ages. The Tropicarium houses diverse marine life, including exotic fish, sharks, and rays, as well as reptiles, amphibians, and birds. 

One of the main highlights is the 11-meter-long tunnel aquarium, where visitors can walk through and experience a 360-degree view of the underwater world. The aquarium also features themed exhibits, such as a tropical rainforest, where guests can explore the rich biodiversity of warm climates, and an interactive section for children. The Tropicarium offers a unique and immersive experience, making it a must-see attraction for nature lovers and families visiting Budapest.

Arrival:
  • M4 green metro to Móricz Zsigmond körtér station
  • Line 17 towards Savoya Park – 9 stops until Albertfalva utca station
  • Line 114 \ 213 11 stops until Lepcsos utca station
  • A 250-meter walk to the Campona commercial center where the complex is located
👓Watch the Video👓

21. Heroes' Square (Hősök tere)
Heroes' Square is a prominent landmark in modern Budapest, located in the heart of Pest on the eastern, flat side of the city. The square is shaped in a semicircular arch, with the Millennium Monument at its center. The arch is adorned with statues of key figures from Hungary's 1,000-year history. At the front of the square is the main entrance to Budapest City Park, and on either side stand buildings with similar facades: the Museum of Fine Arts and the Hall of Art.

The square has been the site of many mass gatherings, including the largest on June 16, 1989, when 250,000 people gathered to honor Imre Nagy, a leader of the 1956 Hungarian Revolution, executed by the Soviet regime. Heroes' Square, along with Andrássy Avenue, is part of Budapest's UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Arrival: yYellow metro M1 to Hősök tere station


22. City Park (Városliget) + Budapest Zoo (Fővárosi Állat-és Növénykert) + Transport Museum (Közlekedési Múzeum) + Circus

The city park (Városliget)
Városliget, or City Park, is a large and picturesque green space in Budapest, offering a variety of attractions that can fill an entire day with experiences. Highlights include the Budapest Zoo, the municipal circus, and family-friendly museums like the Transport Museum. The park also features Vajdahunyad Castle, a replica of a Transylvanian castle in various architectural styles, set around an artificial lake where visitors can sail in the warmer months. In winter, the lake transforms into an ice skating rink. Additionally, the park boasts expansive lawns and numerous playgrounds for children.

Budapest Zoo
The Budapest Zoo is one of Europe's largest and oldest, home to a wide range of animals from all over the world, from the warm savannas of Africa to the icy regions of the poles. A visit to the zoo is a fun and educational experience, especially for families with children, and is well worth a few hours of exploration. 

The Transportation Museum
Several museums are located within the City Park, and the Transportation Museum (Közlekedési Múzeum) in the southeastern part is a must-visit for children. The museum showcases model trains, vintage cars, and even a steamship control room from a vessel that once sailed on the Danube, where kids can press the horn.

Budapest Circus (Fővárosi Nagycircusz)
Located within City Park, the municipal circus is a wonderful venue filled with attractions for children. The theme of the show changes regularly; during our visit, we enjoyed an amazing two-hour ice performance with no animal participation. The kids absolutely loved it!

Arrival: Yellow metro M1 to Hősök tere station


23. Váci utca
Váci Street became a popular shopping destination in the late 18th century. In the Middle Ages, it spanned the entire length of the city of Pest, measuring 1,300 meters. The street is divided into two distinct parts, north and south of Erzsébet Bridge. The northern section is bustling with tourists, lined with restaurants, brand stores like Benton, H&M, and C&A, as well as souvenir and food stalls. In contrast, the southern part, starting from 15 March Square, offers a quieter atmosphere with a mix of shops, art galleries, and restaurants.

Arrival: Blue metro M3 to Ferenciek tere station


24. The Big market (Nagy Vasarcsarnok)
At the end of Váci Pedestrian Street, you'll find the largest market in Budapest, a popular attraction for both tourists and locals.

Arrival: M4 green metro to Fővám tér station


25. The Great Synagogue (Dohány utcai Zsinagóga/Nagy Zsinagóga)
The Great Synagogue in Budapest is the largest synagogue in continental Europe and the fourth largest in the world, following the midrash houses of the Gor and Belez Hasidim in Jerusalem and the Amno-El Synagogue in New York. Belonging to the Neological movement, the synagogue has been active for over 150 years. It was the site of Theodor Herzl's Bar Mitzvah, whose house was nearby. Today, the synagogue is a major tourist attraction and part of a complex that includes a museum dedicated to the history of Budapest's Jewish community, a Jewish cemetery, and a memorial for the 564,500 Hungarian Jews who perished in the Holocaust. The local Jewish community's activity has significantly declined due to immigration and assimilation, which has also affected the synagogue's operations.

Arrival: M2 red metro to Astoria station


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