It may be difficult to enjoy the days of the hottest season in the concrete jungle of Budapest, mild summer evenings however are something we urge you not to miss. Watching the sun going down over the city while sipping some fine local wine is undoubtedly one of the favourite pastime activities of Hungarians and foreign visitors alike. Here are five of our beloved spots to enjoy the sunset views.
Fisherman’s Bastion
The Neo-Romanesque monument of Fisherman’s Bastion, which was built by Frigyes Schulek between 1895 and 1902, is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Budapest. However, its architecture is not the only reason it is so admired. The panoramic view over the Danube, its bridges and the Hungarian Parliament building can be best enjoyed in the evenings when the skies are coloured pink and orange as the sun is going down. It is worth starting the walk in Buda Castle – possibly on a weekday to avoid the masses –, but make sure you arrive to the Bastion in time not to miss the sunset.
Danube Riverbank
Although the walk along the promenade between Margaret Bridge and Chain Bridge comes hand in hand with a splendid view over Buda hills at any time of the day, watching the sun go down behind the bygone buildings of Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion and Matthias Church is an experience everyone should have once in their lifetime. As there aren’t many benches along the riverbank, be prepared to bring your own blanket and don’t forget to have a bottle of fine wine with you either.
High Note SkyBar
You can enjoy a great view from the Lookout Tower of the centrally located St. Stephen’s Basilica being one of the highest viewpoints of the Pest side. Unfortunately, the Lookout Tower closes at 6.30PM in the summer. However, there is a bar from which you can not only see the Basilica and the panorama of Pest, but taste first-class cocktails on the rooftop of Aria Hotel Budapest that was ranked by TripAdvisor as the best hotel in the world in 2016!
Liberty Bridge
As you may have heard, last summer Liberty Bridge, which happens to be one of the coolest ones in Budapest, was closed due to ongoing construction projects. However, cyclists and passengers were allowed to cross the bridge, which resulted in them having chill-out sessions in the weekends full of jamming musicians, hammocks hanging from the pillars and random garden parties. Many thought that this uniquely positive atmosphere should be kept this year as well, which is why local authorities agreed to close the bridge for several weekends in the summer of 2017. Don’t miss out on this special event; enjoy the view together with the crowds!
Citadel
The 235-meter high Gellért Hill located at the Buda side of Liberty Bridge overlooks the whole city including both Buda and Pest sides as well as the Danube dividing the Hungarian capital into two. On the way up the hill there are several hidden spots surrounded by lush greenery, while Citadella, a fortress built in 1851, can be found the top of the hill. You can arrive in time for sunset-watching and occupy one of the handful benches, sit on the walls of the citadel or in the grass.
Tip: 20 August, one of the biggest national holidays in Hungary usually celebrated with jolly parades and lustrous fireworks, is around the corner. The mentioned spots are perfect for watching the fireworks, as well!