Are you tired of hitting all the touristy spots when you visit a new city? Want to unravel the hidden treasures of Budapest that only locals know about? Look no further! Join us on this exciting journey as we take you through some of the most enchanting secret gems of Budapest. From secret gardens to underground ruins, this guide has it all. Get ready to explore and discover something new in one of Europe’s most captivating cities.
Background
Budapest is a city with a rich history and a reputation for being one of Europe’s most cosmopolitan and exciting cities. With endless options for entertainment, delicious food, and unique architecture, it’s no wonder that visitors maintain a never-ending stream of interest in this lively metropolis. Whether you’re looking to explore its famous landmarks or unearth some lesser-known gems, here are five of the city’s best hidden places worth visiting:
1. Fisherman’s Bastion: This imposing waterfront fortress guarded the city’s only entrance until 1873, when it was replaced by the current Chain Bridge. Today, the bastion houses a museum illustrating the city’s maritime history as well as cafes and restaurants overlooking the river.
2.Church of Our Lady on Castle Hill: This square-shaped 14th century cathedral—one of Budapest’s most popular tourist destinations—houses an impressive collection of medieval art including works by Giotto and Fra Angelico. The building is also home to one of Hungary’s largest baroque chapels.
3.The neo-Gothic St Stephen Basilica: Built between 1847-1849 at the behest of Emperor Franz Joseph I in honor of Hungary’s patron saint, this magnificent ecclesiastical complex is home to one of Budapest’s world-famous museums—the Hungarian National Gallery—as well as numerous art galleries and monuments dedicated to different saints throughout history.
What to Expect when Visiting Hidden Places in Budapest
If you’re looking for a hidden haven in Budapest, look no further than these lesser-known gems. From rooftop cafés and abandoned factories to charming courtyard gardens and beautifully preserved baroque architecture, here are seven places to check out when visiting the Hungarian capital.
1. The Roof Garden at Gellért Hill
The 43-meter-high roof garden of the National Gallery on Gellért Hill has been a popular spot for smokers and sunbathers since its construction in 1913. In recent years it has also become a favoured spot for romantic photo ops – so be sure to schedule your visit during the day rather than at night. Admission is free, but donations are gratefully accepted.
2. The Kagytérköz Underground Cellar
Open since 1907 and located beneath the city’s largest park, the Kagytérköz Underground Cellar is one of Budapest’s most mysterious attractions. Built by German prisoners of war during World War I as part of their reconstruction efforts, the cellars now serve as an open-air exhibition space exhibiting sculptures, paintings and historical artefacts from Hungary’s centuries of history. Admission is free but donations are appreciated.
3. The Sunflower Factory at Spasiforma és Társashop Kft.
This former factory dating back to 1876 now houses an art gallery, café and workshop spaces that offer visitors a glimpse into the manufacturing process behind some of Hungary’s most popular products, including confectionery and cosmetics. The building is also home to the country’s only rotating turntable, which makes it a popular spot for disco dancing during summer evenings.
Highlights of Hidden Places in Budapest
Hidden gems in Budapest are easy to miss if you don’t know where to look. Here we outline some of the city’s most charming and little-known spots:
1. Heroes’ Square: This large public square is dominated by a neoclassical marble statue of Frederic I, the founder of Hungary. It’s also home to a number of interesting monuments, including a memorial to War Minister István Bethlen and a statue of Admiral Horthy, Hungary’s wartime leader.
2. Nyugati Railway Station: The impressive neo-Gothic station building dates back to 1881 and is one of the city’s most popular tourist destinations. Inside, explore the elaborately decorated waiting rooms and grandiose main hall (home to an impressive mosaic mural).
3. Gellért Baths: A famous sight in Budapest and the country’s largest thermal complex, the baths were built between 1892 and 1896 under Emperor Franz Joseph II. Aside from its remarkable architecture, Gellért Baths is worth visiting for its heated outdoor pool (open year-round) and extensive array of health treatments available on site (massages, hydrotherapy, etc.).
Conclusion
Budapest is a beautiful city with so much to offer tourists. From the famous Fisherman’s Bastion to András Schiffy Museum, there are plenty of places that you can visit and explore on your trip if you know where to look. In this guide, we have highlighted some of the secret gems of Budapest that are worth visiting and spending time in, whether it’s for a day or longer. So go explore! We believe you will be pleasantly surprised by what awaits you.