After a major revamp, the gardens at the National Museum have reopened, providing the perfect spot to bask in the first rays of spring sunshine. New benches and water features sit amid urban greenery, five minutes from downtown traffic hub Astoria.

In addition to its historical importance as the gathering place for Hungary’s 1848 Uprising against its Habsburg overlords, the garden at the National Museum is a popular hangout for lunch breaks, lazy afternoons and dates.

Renovation started early last year with the aim of incorporating historical elements into the new look.

There are fewer trees now, but more grass, bushes, benches and curved paths for strolling.

By the summer, small fountains and water features will complete the picture, while two drinking fountains are already in place. Renovation is not yet officially over, as the side nearest Pollack Mihály tér is still being worked on, with a café due to open soon.