My Photography & Travel Guide to Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is a city full of history, culture, and beauty. Located in the heart of Hungary and is often compared to Prague, yet these cities are very different.
The city is very easy to get around, and the historic area is quite compact, which makes all the main photography spots easy to get to and explore on foot. There are many photo areas to consider: food venues and markets, squares filled with impressive architecture, historical monuments, trams, bridges, and much more.
I visited Budapest in October of 2016, a few months after I picked up a camera for the first time. I was only there for a weekend and did not have particularly great weather. So, I am very excited to be returning in April 2024 to retake many of the shots I highlight below. While I found many of the spots to photograph, my skills at that point could have been more professional, as you will see below.
What is the best time to visit Budapest, Hungary?
The best time to visit Budapest is during the shoulder season, from April to May and from September to November. The weather is mild and there are far fewer tourists.
Where to Stay
On my first visit, we stayed at the Four Seasons Budapest located in the Gresham Palace, right in front of the Chain Bridge on the Pest side. The location is fantastic, and the hotel was phenomenal. In April 2024, we will be staying at Hotel Mercure, which has an excellent location.
Photography Locations
For Budapest, I would bring a 15-35mm and a 70-200 mm. I would definitely bring a Tripod and ND filters since you will take lots of photos with water and reflections, so long exposures could be fantastic.
Here are my recommendations for the best photography locations:
River Danube
There are lots of beautiful bridges that cross the Danube. Lots of opportunities for long exposure shots.
The Trams
Similar to Prague, there are 2 types of Trams, the modern newer ones, and the older, more traditional trams. The older ones are more photogenic.
At Sunrise
Spiral Staircase at (47°29'41.0"N 19°03'37.9"E)
In April 2024, I will photograph this location
Old House Lookup (47°30'20.3"N 19°03'44.9"E)
In April 2024, I will photograph this location
The Chain Bridge
The Chain Bridge is an iconic landmark and a must-see for any visitor to the city. Completed in 1849, it was the first permanent bridge to be built across the Danube River, connecting the Buda side and the Pest side. Hence, the name of the city is Budapest.
The bridge, also known as the Széchenyi Chain Bridge, was named after István Széchenyi, a Hungarian statesman.
From my Window at the Four Seasons
It really looks great at any time of day, but from my experience, the best view is at the blue hour/sunrise.
B&W Version
It is especially charming at night when the lights illuminate the entire bridge, and the Danube creates reflections.
The Budapest Royal Castle
The Royal Castle “Buda Castle” is located on the Buda Side of the city. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will also find other sites in this area, such as Matthias Church and the Fisherman’s Bastion. On the way up to the castle are some wonderful views of the city.
Exploring Buda Castle Hill
Outside of Fisherman’s Bastion and Matthias church, there are many attractions worth visiting on Buda Castle Hill, including Trinity Square, The Royal Palace, the Hungarian National Gallery, Labyrinths of Buda Castle, the National Széchenyi Library, the President’s Palace (Sandor palace).
All of these locations offer fantastic photo opportunities along with more scenic views of the Danube River and the Pest side. While exploring the cobblestone streets around Trinity Square, you will find unique buildings and architectural details hosting a variety of shops, galleries, bars, and local restaurants.
THE PLATFORMS IN FRONT OF THE CASTLE
After the reconstruction few years ago, there have been two platforms added to the castle fortifications. Both of these have a great view of the city. The first one has completely unobstructed view, the other one has a statue in the middle, but still worth the stop by, as it is so close.
THE CASTLE STEPS
Another part that was created in the reconstruction, are the castle steps, that go down most of the castle hill. You can take an elevator to go up, and then get this great view towards the city with the steps going there. Or you can take photos over the little wall to the right, that give you a view of the new castle park.
On the Road to the Castle
Fisherman’s Bastion
The Fisherman’s Bastion is a gorgeous architectural complex located right next to the castle. It is one of Budapest’s most photographed locations, with intricate carvings, beautiful ornamentation, and grand towers. It is truly beautiful.
Matthias Church
Right next to the Fishermans bastion is the Matthias Church. The Matthias Church, also known as the Church of Our Lady, is a beautiful Gothic cathedral in the Castle District.
It is named after King Matthias, the first king of Hungary to be crowned in the church. The church was originally built in the 13th century but has undergone several renovations and additions over the centuries.
There are 3 main photo spots. The first is the view from the walkway. The second is inside the church. The third is from the top of the tower. It is the highest spot in the city, and while you have to walk up many many many steps, the view is worth it.
The Hungarian Parliament
The Hungarian Parliament Building is a stunning architectural masterpiece. Not only that, it is the largest parliament building in Europe and one of the oldest legislative buildings in the world! It is probably my favorite thing to photograph in the city.
The building was completed in 1904 and is a prime example of Gothic Revival architecture.
I recommend coming at Sunrise. The sun comes up behind the Parliament. The second is that early in the morning, there are no ships, and you will get a reflection in the water. During other times of the day, the river is very busy, and there are no reflections.
Gellert Hill
Gellért Hill is a top destination in Budapest. Once you visit, you’ll quickly understand why! Located on the Buda side of the city, the hill offers stunning panoramic views of both the Danube River and downtown Budapest.
Gellért Hill is home to several important landmarks, including the Citadella, a 19th-century fortress that sits atop the hill, as well as the Liberty Statue, a monument that was erected to honor the Soviet liberation of Hungary during World War II.
Applied Arts Museum
WIll visit in April 2024
The Great Synagogue
WIll visit in April 2024
Vajdahunyad Castle
Vajdahunyad Castle is a stunning castle located in Budapest's City Park. It is built in a variety of architectural styles, including Gothic, Romanesque, and Baroque, making for a unique building unlike any other!
Liberty Bridge
Liberty Bridge is a great place to go for breathtaking views of Budapest. Located in the heart of the city, it spans the Danube River and offers stunning views of both the Buda and Pest sides of the city. From the bridge, you can see some of Budapest’s most iconic landmarks, including the Hungarian Parliament Building and the Buda Castle. The views from the bridge are particularly beautiful at sunset when the city is bathed in a golden glow.
St Stephens Basila
St. Stephen’s Basilica is a beautiful neoclassical cathedral located in the heart of Budapest. It is named after St. Stephen, the first king of Hungary, and is the largest church in the country.
The basilica was completed in 1905 and is known for its stunning architecture, including its grand dome, ornate columns, and colorful stained glass windows.
Budapest Central Market
I always love visiting a food market, and this one is particularly nice. The ornate brick structure that houses the central market on the Pest side is definitely worth a visit. You can photograph colorful stalls filled with beautiful arrangements of produce, meats, seafood, and other specialty foods from the area.
HEROE’S SQUARE
Heroes’ Square is another iconic landmark in Budapest. I love the symmetry. It’s usually very busy in the day, so as I did for these two photos, I would suggest going there in the early morning before the crowds.
It is located at the end of Andrássy Avenue, which is a popular shopping and cultural district in the city.
Hungarian National Geological Institute
Will visit in April 2024
I really enjoyed my previous visit to Budapest, and I am really looking forward to revisiting in the Spring.
If you have enjoyed this guide to Budapest, you can take a look at my other Photography & Travel Guides at this link.