Budapest Parliament Building Travel Guide: Hungary’s Iconic Landmark

Standing proudly along the banks of the Danube River, the Hungarian Parliament Building (Országház) is not only one of the most recognizable structures in Budapest, but also one of the largest and most ornate legislative buildings in the world. As your virtual tour guide, I’ll take you inside and around this architectural gem, sharing practical tips, historical facts, and travel advice to make your visit truly unforgettable.
 

🏛️ A Quick Introduction

Location: Kossuth Lajos Square, Budapest (Pest side of the Danube)

Architectural Style: Neo-Gothic with Baroque and Renaissance Revival elements

Completion: 1904

Designer: Imre Steindl

Size: 268 meters long, 123 meters wide, 96 meters tall

Fun Fact: It’s the third-largest parliament building in the world!

📖 History of the Hungarian Parliament Building

🇭🇺 The Need for a National Parliament

After the Austro-Hungarian Compromise of 1867, Hungary gained more political autonomy. A grand building was needed to reflect this growing national pride and serve as the new seat of the National Assembly.

🏗️ Construction & Design

The building’s foundation stone was laid in 1885.

Architect Imre Steindl won a national competition with his design inspired by the Palace of Westminster in London.

Over 100,000 workers and 40 million bricks were used in the 19-year construction project.

Tragically, Steindl went blind before the building was completed and never saw his masterpiece finished.

✨ What to See Inside the Parliament Building

1. The Main Staircase

A breathtaking first impression—lined with red carpet, golden arches, and grand frescoes.

2. The Dome Hall

This is the spiritual heart of the building. Under the 96-meter-high dome, you’ll find:

The Hungarian Crown Jewels

Statues of historic Hungarian rulers

Stunning stained glass windows

3. The Upper House Chamber

Although no longer in political use, this room is a brilliant example of parliamentary architecture, complete with wooden carvings, frescoes, and symbolic decor.

4. The Lower House Chamber

Still actively used by Hungary’s National Assembly, this chamber is off-limits to regular visitors but can occasionally be viewed on special tours.

5. The Grand Staircases and Corridors

Every corridor is a photo opportunity. Look up and marvel at detailed ceilings, gilded columns, and glass chandeliers.

🎫 Tours & Tickets

🎟️ How to Visit the Parliament Building

Guided Tours: Available daily in multiple languages, including English.

Duration: 45 minutes

Ticket Price:

EU Citizens: 3,500 HUF (€9)

Non-EU Citizens: 7,000 HUF (€18)

Where to Buy: Official Parliament website, or at the Visitors’ Centre on site.

Advance Booking is recommended—especially in summer.

⏰ Opening Hours

Monday to Sunday: 8 AM to 6 PM

Closed during official state functions and holidays

Best time to visit: Morning or early afternoon to avoid crowds

🌆 Top Photo Spots

Across the Danube on the Buda side—especially from Fisherman’s Bastion or Batthyány Square

Kossuth Lajos Square – for dramatic ground-level shots

From the water – take a Danube River cruise at sunset for magical golden-hour views

🚇 How to Get There

Metro: Line M2 to Kossuth Lajos tér station (directly in front)

Tram: No. 2 tram runs along the Danube with excellent views

By Foot: A scenic walk from the Chain Bridge or Margaret Bridge

🧭 Nearby Attractions

Shoes on the Danube Bank – A powerful Holocaust memorial

St. Stephen’s Basilica – Stunning interiors and rooftop views

Liberty Square (Szabadság tér) – Historical monuments and cafes

Margaret Island – A peaceful parkland escape just a short walk away

🏨 Where to Stay Near the Parliament

Hotel Parliament – A stylish boutique option just a few steps away

Prestige Hotel Budapest – Classic elegance with Parliament views

Aria Hotel – Luxury and music-themed rooms within walking distance

🍽️ Where to Eat & Drink

Hungarikum Bistro – Cozy Hungarian dishes with top-rated service

Biarritz Café & Restaurant – A hidden gem with excellent goulash

Kiosk Budapest – Chic riverside dining, great for lunch after your visit

High Note SkyBar – Ideal for evening cocktails with a Parliament view

💬 Tour Guide Tips

Arrive Early: Mornings are less crowded

Bring ID: Required for ticket verification and security

Wear Modest Attire: Out of respect for the building’s formality

Book Online: Especially in summer, tours sell out fast

Bring a Good Camera: The lighting and architecture are perfect for photography

📚 Interesting Facts About the Hungarian Parliament Building

The building uses 242 statues for decoration

It has 691 rooms and 10 courtyards

The 96-meter height is symbolic—marking 896 AD, the year of the Magyar conquest

Parliament’s red dome carpet is made of Austrian wool

It has a 3 km-long corridor system inside

👑 The Crown Jewels

On display in the Dome Hall, you’ll see:

The Holy Crown of Hungary – Dating back to the 11th century

Royal Orb

Sceptre

Sword

They’re guarded 24/7 by the Crown Guard, dressed in full ceremonial uniform.

🌍 Why the Parliament Building Is a Must-Visit in Budapest

The Hungarian Parliament Building is not just a seat of government—it’s a symbol of national pride, architectural splendor, and historical resilience. With its riverside setting, intricate detail, and storied past, it offers a glimpse into the soul of Hungary. Whether you’re into politics, design, or photography, this is one landmark you cannot skip.

🎒 Suggested Itinerary Idea

Morning

Start with a guided tour of the Parliament

Explore Kossuth Square and visit the “Shoes on the Danube” memorial

Lunch

Dine at Hungarikum Bistro or Biarritz Café

Afternoon

Visit St. Stephen’s Basilica

Take a Danube River Cruise

Evening

Return to the Buda side for twilight views and night photography

✈️ Final Thoughts: Experience Hungarian Grandeur

As your guide, I can say with confidence—no visit to Budapest is complete without stepping inside the Parliament Building. Whether you admire it from afar or walk its regal halls, this structure tells the tale of Hungary’s enduring spirit in the language of stone, glass, and gold.