Top 5 attractive tourist destinations in Budapest not to be missed

Budapest – the elegant capital on the banks of the Danube River has long been a jewel of Europe. This city not only possesses ancient and romantic beauty but is also a place where magnificent architectural works, rich cultural heritage and unique culinary experiences converge. If you are planning to explore the “Paris of Eastern Europe”, this article will take you to the top 5 Budapest tourist destinations that everyone should visit at least once in their life.

1. Buda Castle

Buda Castle sits majestically on top of Castle Hill (Photo source: Collected)

Sitting majestically atop Castle Hill, Buda Castle is one of Budapest's most popular tourist attractions, attracting millions of visitors each year. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the castle is not only a historical symbol but also a witness to the ups and downs that have shaped Budapest over the centuries.

The architecture of Buda Castle is a perfect blend of Baroque and Gothic styles. When you enter this vast complex, you will be overwhelmed by the ancient arches, stone-paved squares, and stunning panoramic views of the Danube and the entire city of Pest on the other side. At night, the golden lights illuminate the entire castle, creating a romantic and captivating scene.

Inside Buda Castle, you can visit the Hungarian National Gallery – which houses a collection of Hungarian art from the Middle Ages to the present – ​​or the Budapest History Museum to gain a deeper understanding of the capital’s glorious past. If you love history, this is the ideal stop to immerse yourself in the thrilling and tragic stories of this land.

2. Matthias Church and Fisherman's Bastion

Matthias Church and Fisherman's Bastion with picturesque architecture (Photo source: Collected)

If you want to admire one of the most picturesque tourist attractions in Budapest, head to Matthias Church and Fisherman's Bastion. These two structures are located side by side on Castle Hill, creating an enchanting architectural complex that combines solemnity and fairytale romance.

Matthias Church stands out with its colorful tiled roof and elaborate Gothic facade. Inside, exquisite frescoes and shimmering lighting create a sacred, solemn yet artistic atmosphere. This is also the site of the coronation ceremonies of many Hungarian kings.

Next door, Fisherman's Bastion looks like a castle straight out of a fairy tale. With seven towers symbolizing the seven Magyar tribes that founded the nation, this structure has a romantic beauty with white arched corridors and wide balconies facing the Danube. From here, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of Budapest, especially the majestic Parliament building and the Chain Bridge across the Danube.

At night, Fisherman's Bastion becomes quiet and dim under the lights, the perfect place for you to stroll, take pictures and enjoy the dreamy atmosphere of the Hungarian capital. Coming here, visitors can not only admire the beautiful architecture but also get lost in a legendary space, reminiscent of the heroic history of the Magyar people.

3. Hungarian Parliament Building

The Parliament Building is an unmistakable symbol of Budapest (Photo source: Collected)

Situated majestically on the banks of the Danube, the Parliament Building is an unmistakable symbol of Budapest and one of the most checked-in Budapest tourist attractions. It is the third largest parliament building in the world and is an architectural masterpiece in the Gothic Revival style combined with neoclassical and Renaissance elements.

Built in the late 19th century, the structure is over 260 metres long with over 690 rooms. The soaring pointed arches, the intricately carved facade with numerous historical monuments, and the location on the Danube River make this a living architectural picture, beautiful both day and night. During the day, the bright white facade stands out against the blue sky, and at night, the lighting system makes the whole structure shimmer and reflect on the peaceful Danube.

Visitors can take a tour inside the Parliament building to admire the gilded grand staircase, the majestic main hall and especially the Crown of St. Stephen – a sacred historical treasure of Hungary. Entering the building is like stepping into the glorious past of this country, where every architectural detail tells its own story.

The area around the Parliament building is also worth exploring. Stroll along the river, visit the Shoe Memorial on the Danube – a moving work of art commemorating the Jewish victims of World War II – and enjoy the scenic views of the river as you cruise slowly along the river.

4. Széchenyi Hot Springs and Baths

Széchenyi Baths is the largest thermal bath in Europe (Photo source: Collected)

Budapest is known as the “City of Hot Springs”, and among the most famous Budapest tourist attractions, Széchenyi Baths cannot be missed. This is the largest thermal bath in Europe and a unique symbol of Hungarian spa culture.

Built in the early 20th century in the Neo-Baroque style, Széchenyi Bath offers visitors a luxurious and relaxing experience. It features 18 indoor and outdoor thermal pools, with temperatures ranging from 18 to 40 degrees Celsius, drawn directly from the mineral-rich springs underground in Budapest. Upon entering Széchenyi, you will be greeted by grand vaulted halls, intricately painted ceilings and opulent sculptures, creating the feeling of bathing in a palace.

The highlight of the Széchenyi experience is the huge outdoor pool, where visitors can soak in the warm waters in the dead of winter, steam rising up into the chilly sky. It is also a popular spot for water chess sessions, where players patiently sit on stone benches, moving their pieces while their bodies are submerged in the hot water.

Coming to Széchenyi Bath is not only about mineral baths but also about experiencing a unique cultural aspect of Budapest. This bathhouse is always crowded with both locals and international tourists, becoming a space for socializing, relaxing and enjoying life in the true sense.

5. Andrássy Avenue and the Hungarian State Opera House

Andrássy Avenue is a historic street recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site (Photo source: Collected)

When it comes to chic and elegant Budapest tourist attractions, Andrássy Avenue and the Hungarian State Opera House are always at the top of the list. This historic street, recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, connects the center of Budapest with Heroes' Square, creating a spectacular architectural landscape.

Andrássy Avenue was laid out in the late 19th century and is lined with old mansions, embassies and luxury shops. Walking down the avenue is like stepping back in time to Budapest’s golden age, when this was where Hungarian aristocrats gathered to show off their carriages and finery.

The most impressive highlight of Andrássy is the Hungarian State Opera House – a magnificent Neo-Renaissance building designed by Miklós Ybl. This theater is considered one of the most beautiful theaters in the world with its facade decorated with classical statues, marble staircases, gilded interiors, and elaborate hand-painted ceilings. Visitors can book tickets to world-class opera and ballet performances or join a tour to admire the luxurious space inside.

In addition, Andrássy Avenue also leads you to other attractive destinations such as the Operetta Theater, Liszt Ferenc Square with its vibrant shops, or the House of Terror Museum - a place that recreates the dark history under the fascist and communist regimes. This is truly one of the most beautiful streets in Budapest, connecting the past and present in a luxurious, civilized space.

Budapest is a city that combines ancient beauty, romance and modern vitality. Discovering the top 5 Budapest tourist destinations in the article above will help you understand why the capital of Hungary is so charming. Plan your trip today to discover the beauty of Budapest, immerse yourself in the peaceful life along the Danube and bring back unforgettable memories. Budapest always welcomes you with open arms, ready to tell you the colorful stories of a capital that has conquered the hearts of many tourists around the world.

Source: https://www.vietravel.com/vn/am-thuc-kham-pha/dia-diem-du-lich-budapest-v17539.aspx