One of every three Hungarian postcards is a picture of Budapest’s star architectural piece, the Hungarian parliament building. But such popularity might make you wonder if it’s really worth visiting.
Nestled in Budapest’s 5th district, the Hungarian Parliament building was built between 1885 and 1904. Today, it’s a national landmark and also one of the top 10 attractions in Budapest, attracting thousands of visitors annually.
But what makes it so special?
Why is the Hungarian Parliament famous?
The Hungarian Parliament is world-famous for it’s attention-grabbing architecture. For many, it’s more than just a pretty building but a part of history and cultural heritage. You can see it from various points in Buda and Pest, from the Danube River, and several attractions such as Fisherman’s Bastion and Gellert Hill in District 2.
Besides it’s architecture and history, the structure also has political significance as it serves as the seat of the National Assembly.
If you’re keen to know whether the Parliament is worth visiting, here’s everything you need to know about planning your visit: frequently asked questions, nearby attractions, and places to eat within the 5th district.
Is it possible to go inside the Hungarian parliament building?
Visiting the Hungarian Parliament building is possible but only with a guided tour. Guided tours are available throughout the year and often last around 45 minutes. While it may not seem like enough time to explore all 691 parliament rooms, it’s enough to see the main attractions and learn about the structure’s history, artistry, and significance.
Tours of the Parliament are also held in various languages, such as English, German, and French, with the earliest tours beginning at 8 am and the last ending at 6 pm.
Tip: The Parliament building is closed on most national holidays. However, on days like the 15th March, 20th August, and 23rd October, you can visit the parliament building for free.
How much is it to visit the Hungarian Parliament building?
Tickets to the Hungarian Parliament vary based on age and nationality. The full price for EEA citizens is 5000 HUF, and it costs twice as much for non-EEA citizens. Students who are EEA citizens can visit the Parliament for 2500 HUF, whereas students of non-EEA citizenship can visit for 5000 HUF.
Where can I get tickets to the Parliament Building?
You can get tickets to the Parliament from their official website or book them on trustworthy websites like GetYourGuide. It’s also possible for you to get your tickets at the Visitor Center located on the north side of the Parliament, but you may have to stand in line for a while.
What can I see on a tour of the Parliament Building?
The 45-minute tour of the parliament building involves visiting the House of Parliament, Dome Hall Grand Staircase, and Session Room. You’ll also enjoy seeing the crown jewels, one of the most prized Hungarian possessions within the Parliament.
The parliament building also has four free exhibitions that give an inside look into the history of the Hungarian National Assembly, the construction of the Parliament, and the 1956 revolution.
Did you know?
It’s fascinating for many people to find out that there’s an underworld beneath the foundation of the parliament building. A vast network of tunnels and chambers, including a labyrinthine crypt, spans the ground and has a collection of historical artifacts and archives.
More interesting facts about the Parliament
- The architectural style of the parliament building is Gothic Revival.
- The designs of the Ethnographic Museum and the Hungarian Ministry of Agriculture across the Parliament Building were originally design bids for the Parliament.
- Imre Steindl, the architect of the Parliament, went blind before its completion.
- One hundred thousand people were involved in the construction.
- The building is identical both inside and out.
- The Parliament is 268m long and 118m wide.
- It was initially one of the two tallest buildings in Budapest alongside St Basilica, but the MOL campus is now the tallest.
- The famous red carpet that runs along the corridors is 3km long.
- The Hungarian Parliament building is the third largest Parliament in the world and has 691 rooms, 10 courtyards, and 27 entrances.
Nearby attractions
Due to it’s downtown location in District 5, the Parliament is within close proximity of several attractions. Some of these include:
- Danube River
- Margeret Island
- Deak Ferenc Square
- Shoes on the Danube Bank
- St Stephen’s Basilica
- Fashion Street
Where to eat nearby
For breakfast and brunch:
- Lui Budapest
- Smuz café
- Artizan Bakery
- Blueberry Brunch
- Cookie Beacon
- Meron Budapest
For dinner and drinks:
- Flava
- Tokio
- TacoBar Budapest
- Iguana Bar and Grill
- Retek Bistro
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