Ever wondered what lies beneath Buda Castle? Or what does the unique Müpa Budapest organ look like up close? Eager to discover the magnificent ballroom of the Wenckheim Palace, which is featured in every decent international film shoot in Budapest? Don't let the city's built heritage slip by unnoticed, get to know it as closely as possible on a guided tour!
Budapest is brimming with gorgeous historical buildings, from former palaces to museums, and concert halls, adorned with neo-Gothic, neo-Renaissance, or Art Nouveau facades. You might have walked past a few, leaving you with just a glimpse. But these aren't just pretty facades! Beyond mere aesthetics, these structures invite you to step inside and unravel their stories. Whether you opt for a drink, a solo exploration or a guided tour, you are in for some real architectural treats. We have already rounded up 7 iconic buildings to visit, and now we brought you 5 more! Tours book fast, but don't worry – new ones pop up all the time.
1. Pesti Vigadó
Built in 1865 based on the plans of Frigyes Feszl, the Vigadó is perhaps the last reminder of the pre-World War II ambience of the Danube Promenade. The famous Danube-side hotels burned for three days after the bombing of the city during World War II, and the Vigadó was severely damaged. It was only restored decades later, in the 1980s. As well as the exciting programmes, social events, and the beauty of the building, it is worth taking in the spectacular views from the windows and roof terrace. It's easy to sneak into the building for exhibitions and programmes, but it's worth a stroll to discover its secrets.
- Price: HUF 2,900
- More details here.
2. Müpa Budapest
Müpa Budapest has stood as a regional cultural giant since its opening, offering a vast array of events for every taste. Explore their one-of-a-kind organ with a virtual tour and prepare to be awestruck by the concert hall's acoustics. Here, hidden solutions create a perfect realm of sound. In the spaces used by the audience, almost nothing reveals the underlying maze that serves to make performances and programmes run as swiftly as possible. Moreover, thanks to the tours, we all get a glimpse behind the scenes.
- Price: HUF 2,000
- More details here.
3. Liszt Ferenc Academy of Music
Even if you're not a fan of classical music, you can still enjoy the magnificent Art Nouveau interior of the Liszt Academy. The building was beautifully restored a few years ago, but the guided tour is worthwhile not only because it allows you to focus on the grandiose architecture and intricate details, but also because the various decorations have complex music-related symbolism that is revealed fascinatingly. The tour is followed by a short concert in the main hall with its world-class acoustics.
- Price: HUF 2,900 Ft (+ HUF 1,000 Ft for a mini concert)
- More details here.
4. Caves of the Castle
Above the ground, cheerful sightseers take photos of the charming, colourful streets, while below, the deserted passageways sound ominously silent. We've already toured the castle's secret tunnels, where charming restaurants and magical views give way to a whole different setting. Few know that several storeys below the castle you will find a system of cellars merging with natural caves, which have been continuously expanded since the Middle Ages. A natural well, a dungeon, a shelter, and a wine cellar were once located here. During the Buda Castle Walks, you can visit the cellars through the story of the siege of the capital during World War II and visit the former shelter.
- Price: HUF 4,500 / person
- More details here.
5. Wenckheim Palace (Szabó Ervin Library)
Looking at the magnificent rooms of the Szabó Ervin Library, one might be forgiven for thinking that the building was not built for public use. The Wenckheim Palace, housing the library, was once a place of entertainment for the aristocracy of the Monarchy. The patron, Frederick Wenckheim, belonged to the highest echelons of society, so it is possible that 500 aristocrats once danced in the palace's ballroom, which was decorated with gold and Venetian mirrors. It's no coincidence that the lavishly ornamented halls were discovered by the film industry, including in an episode of Die Hard. Although you can get in with a reader's card, it's well worth exploring the secrets of the place with a guided tour.
- Price: HUF 1,900
- More details here.
(Cover photo: Krisztián Bódis - Budapest Images)
