Get ready to be mesmerized by this stunning structure situated by the banks of the Danube. Embark on a mesmerizing journey through the Hungarian Parliament, a stunning example of a mixture of architectural styles. The floor plan is Baroque, the front has striking Gothic decorations, and the ceilings are decorated with Renaissance designs.
This massive structure is the tallest in Budapest and the world's third-largest parliament building. Discover the Dome Hall's beauty and walk through the fancy Main Staircase. Explore history in the Chamber of Peers and Grand Stairway at this UNESCO World Heritage Site. When you see the Holy Hungarian Crown, it is like delving deeper into the history of Hungary. Each gem and metal piece has its own special tale.
Explore the Parliament's unique features, like the Cupola, inspired by the Maria vom Siege church in Vienna. You will be amazed to know that the Parliament's interiors shine with 40 kilograms of 23-carat gold.
Highlights
• Witness Hungary's biggest building, sitting by the River Danube and looking like a huge castle with statues and a special dome.
• Marvel at the mix of old styles like Baroque and Gothic as the architect combined them to make a special and beautiful place.
• Get amazed at this maze of history and its 691 rooms as you explore its many levels, courtyards, and 29 entrances.
• Enjoy getting a close look at King Steven's crown jewels, shining and telling stories from a long time ago.
• Experience the beauty of the structure and the 152 statues carved out of stone at this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
How To Reach
1. By Tram: You can take the line 2 tram from Széchenyi István tér and arrive at Kossuth Lajos tér M. The distance from Budapest to the Parliament Building is about 1 km and takes approximately 2 minutes by tram. From the train station, you can cover the remaining distance by foot in about 5 minutes.
2. By Metro: You can also reach the Parliament building by taking a metro from Budapest and getting off at the Subway station Kossuth Tér on the M2 underground line.
Best Time To Visit
The Hungarian Parliament Building is a great place to visit throughout the year regardless of the season. It stands as an iconic and awe-inspiring landmark, inviting visitors to explore its rich history and architectural grandeur.
Best season: the best times of the year to explore the Parliament are from March to May and September to November. During these seasons, the weather is delightful, and there are fewer tourists, allowing for a more peaceful and enjoyable visit.
Best day in the week: The best days of the week to explore the Parliament are weekdays when it tends to be less crowded compared to weekends. Choosing a weekday can provide a more relaxed and enjoyable experience, allowing you to take in the beauty of the Parliament and its surroundings with fewer tourists.
Best time of the day: For the most enchanting experience, evenings are the perfect time to visit the Parliament, as it is beautifully illuminated.
Other Essential Information
- Consider booking in advance online before your trip as a limited number of tickets are available each day at the Visitors Centre.
- Tours are offered in Hungarian, English, French, Hebrew, German, Russian, Italian, and Spanish daily at specific times, so choose a language that suits you.
- Make sure to carry a printed copy of your ticket for scanning upon entry.
- Do not forget to bring identification proof with you for entry.
- It is a good idea to arrive 15 minutes before the time mentioned on your ticket to ensure a smooth entry process.
Marvel at The Grand Stairway
This is a symbol of elegance in the Hungarian Parliament and is a breathtaking spectacle. Featuring 96 stairs covered in regal red carpet, it creates a majestic atmosphere. Connecting the main entrance to the Dome Hall, its uniqueness shines through eight one-of-a-kind granite columns, with only 12 worldwide. The windows, adorned with decorative stained glass panels, add to the grandeur of this exceptional staircase, making it a central piece in the Parliament's architectural splendor.
Tour The Upper House
Visit the Old Upper House Hall, now used for conferences and meetings since Hungary became a one-house Government. Watch this grand room adorned with gold-plated decorations, galleries, and paintings showcasing Hungary's royal families' coats of arms behind the podium.
Marvel at this stunning space with seating for 453 people. Move to the Upper House Lobby, its special touch is a hand-knotted turquoise floor carpet. Marvel at the adorned pillars that showcase statues representing Hungarian national groups and culture. They have ornate gold-gilded ceilings and paintings adding to its charm.
Explore The Hungarian Parliament Museum
The Hungarian Parliament Museum, in the Visitors Centre, is free for all to explore. interesting exhibits inside like "1000 Years of Hungarian Legislation," "History of the Construction of the Courtyard," "Stone Museum," and "1956 Memorial." All of these exhibits tell stories about Hungary's rich past.
The construction history can be learned through an audio and visual guide about the Parliament. The Stone Museum has carvings, and the 1956 Memorial is a special symbol for the 1956 Uprising against the Soviets.
Witness The Dome Hall
Head to the very heart of the Parliament, which is also the symbolic center of Hungary as it is home to the Hungarian Holy Crown. You can see the Coronation Insignia and some of Europe's oldest coronation items here.
Enter the Dome Hall, where the Hungarian Crown and royal insignia reside. Marvel at the rib vaulted ceiling adorned with stained glass paintings. Look down to find statues of Hungarian rulers on gold pedestals, creating a regal atmosphere. You will also find majestic statues of Hungarian rulers standing tall on golden pedestals.
Visit The Béla Neÿ hall
Discover fascinating things at this exhibition, like the red star that used to be on top of the Parliament, statues of brave soldiers serving as lightning rods, and a tiny model of the Parliament building. The experience gets more fascinating with modern technology – check out ten screens for behind-the-scenes insights and virtual construction details.
Next to the screens are models used for the stone statues. The Parliament has been Hungary's home for over a hundred years, witnessing happy moments and storms.
