St. Stephen’s Basilica

St. Stephen’s Basilica is not just a fancy church; it’s like a grand palace for all things breathtaking. You’ve got stunning architecture that’ll make your jaw drop, and when you climb up to the dome, you’re in for a view that’s like a giant postcard of Budapest. During Christmas, this place also becomes the heart of the festive action as the Christmas market outside the Basilica is pure magic!

1051 Budapest, Szent István tér 1. |Website

Cave Church

For a captivating visit right at the heart of Budapest, make sure to explore the Gellért Hill Cave Church, a genuine national treasure. This historic sanctuary, completed in the spring of 1931 according to the visionary plans of Kálmán Lux and masterfully brought to life by Károly Weichinger, stands as a remarkable sight that’s not to be missed. Additionally, in 1934, a Neo-Romanesque-style monastery was added to the church, enhancing the entire experience.

1114 Budapest, Szent Gellért rakpart 1. |Website

Inner-City Parish Church

Budapest’s Inner-City Parish Church, also known as the Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary, is located right in the busy hub of the city. Its adventurous history traces all the way back to the 14th century, and over the centuries, it even pulled double duty as a mosque. In the mid-1700s, it got a Baroque-style makeover that really spruced things up. You can actually join one of the guided tours in English to uncover all the secrets – the full scoop on the history and the mind-blowing architecture.

1056 Budapest, Március 15. tér 2. |Website

Budatower

Embark on a journey to the soaring gem of Budapest – the lookout of the Mary Magdalene Church. Once grand, now only the tower and ruins stand as witnesses to history. The tower, a masterpiece of architecture, whispers tales of times gone by. Brace yourselves for a climb of epic proportions! But fear not, for the reward is beyond measure. At the summit, take a moment, catch your breath, and soak in the panoramic vistas. Snap those photos, you’ve earned it!

1014 Budapest, Kapisztrán tér 6. |Website

If you are in the Christmas spirit:

Winter Wonderland in Budapest: 6 Places to Discover this Season

As the holiday season approaches, the Hungarian capital transforms into a true winter wonderland. So, bundle up, grab a mug of mulled wine, and embark on a jolly jaunt through Budapest!

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Concerts & Views

There are a number of reasons why it is worth taking a stroll around one of Hungary’s most significant religious sites. The area surrounding St. Stephen’s Basilica is full of life, but first, take a look inside the breathtaking building. If the world-famous organ pipes catch your attention, we highly recommend you attending one of the Monday or Friday concerts. Don’t forget to conquer the tower, too. May the amazing panorama view from the balcony be your motivation to climb up a maximum of 364 stairs. Two elevators are available in case needed.

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Best Bagel Basilica

Sightseeing with an empty stomach is not the proper way to discover a city. Fortunately, you don’t have to walk too far to grab a hearty breakfast or an early lunch. For delicious day starters, find Best Bagel Basilica, a cozy eatery located on Zrínyi Street. The reason to love them is, all items on the menu were composed to give you a boost while also offering a taste-bud pampering experience. The bagels are freshly baked (and vegan), and the ingredients are of the best quality. Whether you pick avocado, egg cream, smoked salmon, prosciutto or duck liver paté, expect a mind-blowing flavor fusion.

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Budapest Retro Interactive Museum

There is an extraordinary time machine in Október 6. Street, namely the Budapest Retro Interactive Museum, which is yet another amusing spot around St. Stephen’s Basilica. You will feel like you have entered a whole new world right after crossing the doorstep. With a colorful bar, a Trabant at the entrance hall, and several rooms filled with fascinating memorabilia from past decades, this interactive museum is full of fun and history. Teaser: it will take you back to the time when Hungary had its very own airline, Malév, as well as to the era when police officers were cruising around in Lada cars.

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Amusing Time Travel to Budapest Retro: Retro Museum in the Heart of the City

Guised as a museum, Budapest Retro Interactive Museum is actually a time capsule just a few minutes’ walk from central Erzsébet Square.

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Ferris Wheel of Budapest

Just a stone’s throw away from the basilica you will easily spot the Ferris Wheel of Budapest in Deák Square’s direction. Perfect for a date night or sightseeing with family and friends, it is the next stop of your self-guided tour for a good reason. Imagine riding a ferris wheel in an amusement park, it is always fun, isn’t it? Now mix that experience with the joy of admiring a beautiful capital city from a totally different perspective. Bring a picnic blanket in your backpack and after the ride, spend some time at lovely Erzsébet tér, on the grass surrounding Akvárium Klub.

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Conte Café

It is no surprise that even fun-filled days can be exhausting. In order to recharge your batteries, try a new way of consuming your daily caffeine. At modern and welcoming Conte Café, premium coffee (made from South American coffee beans roasted in Budapest) is poured into delicious artisan waffle cones covered with Belgian dark or white chocolate on the inside. Thanks to the unique serving, the novelty called Conteccino has become quite popular among coffee aficionados who are also invited to taste some incredible desserts (fruit waffle cone, creamy cupcakes, biscuits and more) on the spot.

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Liberty Square

Even though Budapest is a busy capital city, plenty of green areas are hidden in plain sight. One of them is Liberty Square, situated a few minutes’ walk away from St. Stephen’s Basilica. Being there might feel like attending an open-air architectural exhibition since the surrounding buildings (Hungarian National Bank, Exchange Palace, Swabian House, and so on) are impressive in many ways. For another visually pleasing experience, head to Hold Street’s market-hall-turned-museum: at Light Art Museum’s fabulous hall, outstanding installations and ground-breaking artworks are on display.

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