The Third Largest In Europe
The commanding building of the Hungarian Parliament on Kossuth Square stretches on the Pest bank of the Danube between
- the Chain Bridge and
- Margaret Bridge.
The ecclectic building is the seat of the National Assembly. It draws your attention from almost every riverside point and Buda.
The Gellért Hill and the Castle Hill on the opposite bank offer the best panorama of this huge edifice.
The Parliament On A River Cruise
TIP: Since the Parliament is a famous landmark and one of the top attractions of Budapest, most travellers want to include it in their must-visit itinerary. If you don’t plan to see it on a guided tour – read our take-on whether it’s worth visiting from the inside – then admire the exterior from a cruise on the Danube or via a walk around Kossuth Sqr.
Table of Contents
The Hungarian Parliament building is splendid from the inside too.
It houses one of Hungary’s greatest treasure: the Holy Crown of St Stephen.
You can visit it on organised tours only, except on some national holidays when it is open to the public.
The Nation’s Christmas Tree in Kossuth Square
Hungary’s official Christmas tree stands in front of the Parliament in the Advent period. This year it’s a 45-year old imposing fir tree that’s 20 meters high and weighs around 5 tons.
The tree is crowned with a large, eight-pointed, energy-efficient LED star. It’s adorned with 2500 meters of colorful LED lights.
A wooden nativity scene from Kisgyőr complements the tree.
Together, they will illuminate Kossuth Square from Advent to Epiphany, January 06, 2025.
👉 Find out about more programs around Christmas in Budapest!
Visiting The Hungarian Parliament – FAQ
Q: Can I Visit The Hungarian Parliament As A Tourist?
A: Yes, you can visit the Hungarian Parliament as a tourist.
The 45-minute guided tours with audioguide are available in several languages, including English, German, French.
Tours run between 08:00 and 18:00, with the last one departing at 17:00.
Q: What Are The Opening Hours For Visiting The Hungarian Parliament?
A: The Hungarian Parliament is usually open for visitors from Monday to Sunday, with tours running from 08:00 am to 18.00. The last tour of the day starts at 17:00.
The Parliament is closed on select holidays and special occasions depending on the schedule of the National Assembly.
Opening Hours In 2023:
01. January – 31. March: Mon – Sun: 08.00 – 16.00
01 – 30. April: Mon – Thurs: 08.00 – 16.00, Fri – Sun: 08.00 – 18.00
01. May – 31. October: Mon – Sun: 08.00 – 18.00
01. November – 31. December: Mo – Sun: 08.00 – 16.00
Note: The Parliament is usually closed to visitors on Hungarian national and bank holidays.
TIP: On some National Holidays – usually 15th March, 20th August, 23rd October the Parliament is open to visitors without having to pay entry fee.
Q: How Much Do Tickets Cost For Visiting The Hungarian Parliament?
A: Ticket prices for visiting the Hungarian Parliament depend on several factors, including age, nationality, and the type of tour. Different prices apply for citizens of EEA countries, (European Economic Area) and non-EEA countries
As of 2023, the following prices apply for the standard tour:
Full price for EEA Citizens (with valid ID): 5 000 HUF (cc. 13 EUR), Non-EEA Citizens: 10 000 HUF (cc. 26 EUR)
Student price for citizens of EEA Countries (ages 6-24, with valid ID): 2 500 HUF (approximately 6.5 EUR), citizens of Non-EEA countries (ages 6-24): 5 000 HUF, (cc. 13 EUR
Children (under age of 6): Free
Q: What Is The Best Time To Visit The Hungarian Parliament?
A: The best time to visit the Hungarian Parliament is during the morning or early afternoon, as the building can get crowded later in the day.
Q: Do I Need To Book My Visit In Advance?
A: Yes, it is recommended that you book your visit in advance, especially during peak tourist season (June to August) to avoid disappointment.
Q: How Can I Book My Visit?
A: You can book your visit online through a third-party booking service: Jegymester.hu. You can also buy your ticket in person in the Visitor Centre (northern side of the Parliament building).
Depending on the season, time of day you may have to stand in queue.
Q: How Long Does The Tour Take?
A: The tour of the Hungarian Parliament takes about 45 minutes to one hour.
Q: What Is Included In The Tour?
A: The tour includes a visit to the House of Parliament, the Dome Hall, the Grand Staircase, and the Session Room.
Q: Is There A Dress Code For Visiting The Hungarian Parliament?
A: There is no special dress code, but please dress appropriately: we recommend casually elegant clothes based on weather conditions of course, covering the shoulders and legs. Wearing symbols of dictatorship is forbidden.
There is also a code of conduct that requires visitors not to make loud noises, kneel, sit or lie on the stairs, ground, and furnishings etc. Eating and drinking aren’t allowed either.
Book a Budapest Grand City Tour with Parliament Visit
Experience the best of Budapest with our Grand City Tour, including a visit to the iconic Parliament building. See the city’s most stunning landmarks and historic sites while learning about its rich culture and heritage. Don’t miss this unforgettable opportunity to explore Budapest like never before.
Buying Tickets Offline
Note: Prepare to stand in queue in high season!
Ticket Office in the Visitor Center:
If you don’t want to buy your ticket online you can get tickets at the ticket office in the new Visitor Center at the north side of the Parliament building at the end of Balasssi Bálint Street.
Prepare for queuing: as quoted form the institution’s official website: “Please note that purchasing tickets on the spot might take a considerable amount of time”
What Will You See During The Guided Tour?
After a walk around the building you will be visiting the interior of the Parliament where your guide will show you the
- Most famous rooms, and
- Other parts of the building, while
- Telling historical facts and stories.
More on visiting the Parliamen: official website
Getting There, Map
Address:
- Kossuth Lajos tér, district V.
Since the building is centrally located in Pest city centre, right on the bank of the Danube, you have several options to get there:
- M2 (red) metro line has a station at Kossuth Lajos tér,
- Tram No. 2 also has a stop here,
- Bus No 15,
- Trolleys No 70, 78
- Public boat lines D11, 12 (currently not in operation)
TIP: You can also conveniently access Kossuth Square by walk if you explore the must-see sights in district V. Stroll along the riverside in Pest, towards Margaret Bridge and you’ll inevitably end up there!
Find out more about public transport in Budapest.
TIP: If you want to stay in a hotel near the Parliament building then read review of the Hotel Parliament and other downtown Budapest hotels.
The Parliament in Numbers
The building is 268 m long and 118 m wide across the centre.
It occupies 18.000 square metres on the surface and 473.000 cubic metres of space.
About 50 five-story apartment blocks could fit into the Parliament, just to give you an idea about its vastness.
Budapest Parliament is the third largest parliament in the world.
Today it seems too big for such a small country, but at the time of its construction Hungary was part of the Habsburg Empire, that stretched from the Tatra Mountains to the Adriatic.
- The Parliament has 691 rooms
- The length of all the stairs together measures about 20 kilometers. The most impressive is the grand staircase.
- The building contains spacious halls. The central dome’s height reaches 96 m.
- The building has 27 entrance gates. 90 statues and the coats-of-arms of various cities adorn the exterior.
- There are 152 statues and pictures of national fauna. The decorations needed about 40 kg 22-23 karat gold.
Best of Budapest Parliament
- The Hungarian Coronation Regalia is the most prized treasure; it includes the Holy Crown, the orb, the sceptre and a Renaissance sword.
- Other notable attractions are the numbered cigar-holders that line the window sills outside the debate chambers.Smoking politicians left their cigars in the holders when they went in to vote. When they returned they could easily find their cigars, if they remembered the number of the holder.
- the impressive Grand Staircase sweeping from the main entrance to the Dome Hall
- the imposing Dome Hall and 16 statues of Hungarian leaders in it
- Hunters’ Hall is one of the fascinating rooms surrounding the Dome Hall from the Danube side, stunning frescoes adorn its wall
- beautiful painted glass windows by Miksa Róth
TIP: A famous historic naval ship-turned-museum, the Lajta, will be anchored next to the Parliament till 30. Sept. 2018. View the unique exhibition and combine the program with a sightseeing cruise on the Danube!
History
In the Reform Era (second half of the 19. century) the idea of a “House of a Motherland” became more and more popular.
Constructions began in 1884 and lasted for two decades.
The building opened in 1902, although it should have been finished by 1896 for the Millennium to celebrate the 1000th anniversary of Hungary’s foundation.
Leaders of the country chose the Pest bank of the Danube as location, to counterweight the Royal Palace rising high on the other side of the river.
The architect, Imre Steindl got his inspirations for the design from London’s Houses of Parliament.
After World War II the diet became single-chambered, and the government uses only a small portion of the building today.
In the communist regime a red star perched on the top of the dome that was removed in 1990.
Mátyás Szűrös declared the Hungarian Republic from the balcony facing Kossuth Lajos tér on 23rd October in 1989.
The Hungarian Parliament has 386 members that are elected every 4 year.
Architecture
Budapest Parliament represents one of the city’s many architectural masterpieces.
Its neo-Gothic main style and the river-side location make it very similar to London’s Houses of Parliament.
The architect, Imre Steindl mixed medieval features with national and his own style.
The result is an eclectic classic.
The Dome
- A Renaissance dome crowns a neo-Gothic facade that lies on a Baroque base ground.
- The main cupola is decorated with statues of Hungarian kings.
- Fierce turul birds guard the main entrance. The interior decor is mainly neo-Gothic.
Museum with 4 Free Exhibitions
Together with the Visitor Center a new museum and free exhibitons opened in 2015 after the refurbishment of the building and the square.
The exhibits are free to visit and offer a glimpse into the
- Turbulent history of the Hungarian National Assembly, the
- Construction of the Parliament and the
- Tragic events of the 1956 revolution.
Learn more about the Parliament Museum and Exhibitions in the Visitor Center.
You’ll find a guide to other Budapest Museums on this page.
Statues on Kossuth Square
Most of the statues in Kossuth tér park have been renewed with some new ones erected during the complex reconstruction project in previous years.
The bronze equestrian statue of Ferenc Rákóczi II. (1676 – 1735) stands on the southern side of the park.
It had been planned to erect by the 200th anniversary of the death of Rákóczi but the work was only finished in 1937.
The statue was renewed during the recent renovation of Kossuth tér.
The Kossuth Memorial – Statue of Lajos Kossuth (1802-1896), Governor of Hungary’s first independent government during the 1848-1849 Revolution and War of Independence.
The other 8 figures – 4 to the left 4 to righ of Kossuth – are from the Batthyány-government.
The current memorial, inaugurated in March 2015, is the replica of the original one created by János Horvay and erected in 1927.
The original memorial was demolished in the Communist regime in 1951 becuse it was deemed too melancholic and pessimist.
The 6,5 m high bronze equestrian statue of Count Gyula Andrássy (1823-1890, prime minister of Hungary between 1867-71) on the southern side of the Parliament is a replica of the original one by György Zala erected in 1904.
The new memorial was inaugurated in May 2015.
TIP: Free concerts on Kossuth Square in summer, till September. Thursdays at 17.00 (date can be subject to change) you can enjoy music by various local bands at the Parliament
Genres cover: classical music, jazz, swing, acoustic light music etc. See other free outdoor concerts at scenic Budapest locations
Other Attractions Nearby
Due to the central location of the parliament you will find a couple of sights and attractions in its vicinity.
Statue of Imre Nagy, Vértanúk tere
prime minister during the 1956 revolution
The full-height statue of Imre Nagy, Hungary’s prime minister during the 1956 October 23rd revolution, stands on a small bridge facing the Parliament Building on Vértanúk tere.
Note: The statue was removed in 2018 to be restored.
The National Martyrs’ Monument took its place. Imre Nagy’s statue is planned to be re-erected in Jászai Mari Square.
Szabadság tér – (Liberty Square)
Szabadság tér is just a short walk south east of the Parliament building. Some great buildings of architectural value flank this pleasant green spot.
The statue of former US president, Ronald Reagan guards the end of the square.
Falk Miksa Street – An Avenue for Art Lovers
Falk Miksa utca is a charming street starting at the northern part of the Parliament and taking you to Szt. István körút on Grand Boulevard.
Almost every other building houses an Antique Shop or Gallery, so if you want to pick up some great Art deco, baroque or modern artwork at affordable price.
The street has a new attraction, a Columbo statue added in late 2013.
According to an urban legend Peter Falk was a great-grandson of Miksa Falk – a 19. century Hungarian writer and politician, chief editor of the German Pester Lloyd newspaper- was
Here are some of the best antique shops and galleries in the street:
Virág Judit Gallery & Auction House
Address: Falk Miksa u. 30, V. district
Website: Virág Judit Gallery
Kieselbach Gallery & Auction House
Address: Szent István körút 5.
For serious art collectors: rare paintings, graphics, mostly late 19-early 20. century.
MissionArt Gallery
Address: Falk Miksa u. 30, V. district
Mainly Hungarian paintings form the late 19. – early 20. century: Nagybánya School,
Where to Eat in the Area?
The neighbourhood, being in the herat of Budapest, is packed with restaurants and cafes with terraces where you can enjoy a good meal or just drink in pleasant weather.
I highy recommend two new cafes (Elysée and Liberté) that both wish to bring back some of the city’s once-grand cafe culture.
Szamos Cafe, Cake Shop & Chocolate Museum
Address: Kossuth tér 10., district V.
Opening Hours:
- Cafe: Mon-Fri: 7.30-19.00, Sat-Sun: 9.00-19.00
- Museum: Mon-Sun: 10.00-18.00
Admission to the museum: 980 HUF – incl. tasting of a marzipan and a chocolate bonbon
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The Szamos Cafe is a modern, urban cafe, cake shop and and Chocolate Museum right at Kossuth tér in place of the former Parlament Cafe.
It’s part of the Szamos chain, a family owned group of confectioneries and cafes at several places in the capital and other Hungarian towns.
They’re known for their traditional
- Local cakes (Eszterházy torte, Dobos torte, Pozsonyi crescents)
- Pastries and
- Chocolate bonbons made according to family recipes.
I wouldn’t say they have the best Hungarian cakes in town, because I think there are places that offer way better (Daubner, Asztalka, Édes Sári, Porcukor, Gerbeaud, Auguszt) but this new shop – geared more toward tourists – has a vibrant, youthful vibe making it a pleasant place to take a rest after all the walking and sightseeing.
Beyond Sweet Treats
In the spirit of their new slogen “More than sweet” , besides the sweets you can have breakfast, brunch or a light dinner at Szamos Cafe.
The cafe has a fresh, trendy interior: on the wall next to the staircase leading up to the gallery you can see a bold, extravagant ink drawing: a galloping horse by Hanna Kürthy artist.
The gallery is for those who prefer the more traditional atmosphere of other Szamos shops.
Here you can eat a la carte at elegantly set tables, (the ground floor is self service).
Ideal for a leisurely afternoon tea or business meeting.
The upper level is dedicated to the Chocolate Museum: an exhibition of around 1500 pieces related to chocolate manufacturing and the confectionery trade, collected by the family members for several decades.
A terrace is of course a must in this part of downtown.
See more photos about our visit to the Szamos Parlament on our Facebook page.
Café Biarritz
Address: Kossuth tér 18. 1055, district V.
Opening Hours:
- Mon-Fri: 09.00- 22.00
Tel: +36 1 311 4413
Website
One of the best restaurants in the city center.
The seasonal menu offers
- Mediterranean-style grill food,
- fresh salads,
- there is also weekly menu.
The wine dinners are great opportunities to taste the best of Hungarian wines.
Elysée Bistro & Cafe
Address: Kossuth tér 13-15., district V.
Opening Hours
- Mon – Sun: 09.00 – 23.00
Elyséee was one of the several grand coffee houses operating at Kossuth square during the 1920-30s.
After the war and during the communist era these places either closed up or went to decline.
The new Elysée opened in 2015 just across the Parliament with contemporary Hungarian and French cuisine, coffee and breakfast dishes.
What To Eat In Elysée Cafe?
- a 2-course daily menu for 1 890 HUF,
- a weekly changing menu of seasonal dishes (prices around 1 500-4 200 HUF), as well as
- á la carte delicacies: some really good local fare: goulash soup ( 1 550 HUF), or veal stew (4 280 HUF).
- Desserts are splendid too.
The cafe has modern yet warm interior and the large terrace is just perfect for sitting around while nursing a cup of coffee.
Prices are not cheap but this is expected in the neighbourhood.
See more cafe recommendations in Budapest.
Culinaris Gourmet Food Store and Restaurant
Address:
- Balassi Bálint u. 7, Budapest 1055, district V., a short walk north of the Parliament building
Opening Hours:
- Mon – Sat: 08.00 – 20.0
- Sunday: 10.00 – 18.00
The store has all sorts of food stuff from all over the world (dairy and bakery products, spices, chocolates and sweets, beverages, meat products etc.).
A great place to stock up on gourmet delights!
See also our page about Best Restaurants in Budapest, or our recommendation of Hungarian Restaurants in Budapest.
Other Must-See Budapest Sights & Attractions:
Buda Castle – St. Stephen’s Basilica – Dohány Street Synagogue – Heroes’ Square – New York Palace Budapest