One of Europe’s largest and most impressive legislative buildings, the Hungarian Parliament is a masterpiece of Gothic Revival architecture. Sitting proudly by the Danube, it’s not just the seat of power—it’s also a symbol of national pride and an unmissable highlight of Budapest’s skyline. Inside, it houses the Holy Crown of Hungary, a priceless relic used to crown the country’s kings for centuries.

This moving riverside memorial honors the memory of Jewish victims who were killed during World War II. Dozens of iron shoes line the bank, representing those who were forced to remove their shoes before being shot into the Danube. It’s a powerful reminder of the past and one of Budapest’s most emotional sites. The memorial pays tribute to the thousands of innocent lives lost during the Holocaust in Hungary.

Margaret Island & Margaret Bridge (Panorama) Margaret Island offers peaceful greenery, charming gardens, and panoramic views from Margaret Bridge. It’s an oasis in the city, perfect for strolling, cycling, or relaxing with a beautiful view of the Danube. The island also boasts historical sites, including the medieval ruins of a Dominican convent, making it an ideal place for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

The Hungarian Science Academy is a neoclassical building with a fascinating history. It’s a hub of scientific research and discovery, with a beautiful location along the Danube offering both intellectual and visual stimulation. The Academy has played a crucial role in the advancement of science in Hungary. It plays a key role in advancing knowledge, including the promotion and preservation of the Hungarian language—a critical part of the nation’s cultural identity.

Royal Palace – The Crown Jewel of Buda Castle Hill Standing proudly atop Castle Hill, the Royal Palace (Budavári Palota) is one of Budapest’s most magnificent landmarks and a symbol of Hungary’s long and eventful history. Overlooking the Danube River, this grand complex forms the southern part of the Buda Castle District, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and offers visitors breathtaking views, fascinating museums, and centuries of royal heritage. The Royal Palace has been the heart of Hungary’s political and cultural life for nearly 700 years. The first royal residence was built in the 13th century after the Mongol invasion, but it was King Sigismund of Luxembourg in the 15th century and later King Matthias Corvinus who turned it into a true Renaissance palace, admired across Europe. Over the centuries, the castle was repeatedly expanded, destroyed, and rebuilt, each era leaving its mark on the architecture and character of the hill.

The first permanent bridge to connect Buda and Pest, the Chain Bridge is a symbol of unity and progress in Hungarian history. Opened in 1849, its iconic stone lions and iron chains have witnessed revolutions, wars, and countless sunsets over the Danube. Walking across it offers some of the best panoramic views in the city.

Gellért Hill and the Liberty Statue – A Symbol of Freedom and Stunning Views Rising 235 meters above the Danube River, Gellért Hill is one of the most striking natural landmarks in Budapest. This dolomite hill, covered with lush greenery and scenic walking paths, offers some of the best panoramic views of the city. The hill was named after St. Gellért (St. Gerard), a Benedictine monk and Hungary’s first missionary, who played a key role in converting the country to Christianity. According to legend, he was martyred here by pagan rebels in the 11th century — and his dramatic statue, overlooking the river, now marks the spot where he was thrown from the hill.

The Danube – The Soul of Budapest Flowing gracefully through the heart of Hungary’s capital, the Danube River is much more than just a body of water — it is the soul of Budapest. For centuries, the Danube has shaped the city’s identity, dividing Buda and Pest while symbolically uniting them in timeless harmony. The Danube River Budapest offers some of the most breathtaking scenery in Europe. As you stroll along its banks or glide over its shimmering surface on a Danube River cruise, you’ll encounter many of the city’s most iconic landmarks. From the majestic Hungarian Parliament Building glowing in the evening light to the fairytale towers of Fisherman’s Bastion, and the elegant Chain Bridge (Lánchíd) connecting both sides of the city, every view tells a story.

Matthias Church – A Jewel of Buda’s Castle Hill With its colorful Zsolnay tile roof and ornate Gothic spires, Matthias Church is one of the most striking landmarks in Budapest. Standing proudly in the heart of the Buda Castle District, this centuries-old church is not just a place of worship—it’s a symbol of Hungary’s rich and turbulent history. Originally built in the 13th century, the church has witnessed coronations, wars, and reconstructions. It was here that Franz Joseph I and Empress Elisabeth (Sisi) were crowned as rulers of Hungary in 1867. During the Ottoman era, it was transformed into a mosque, and later restored to its former glory in the 19th century by architect Frigyes Schulek.