Belváros or Downtown is the V. District of Budapest. It consists of two historic neighbourhoods with well-defined borders within the V. District - Lipótváros ("Leopold town", after Emperor Leopold II) in the north includes the Parliament and many governmental buildings, Szent István Basilica and some museums, while the southern part (Belváros proper) is mostly high-class accommodations, shops and nightlife area.

Get in

District 5, Downtown of Budapest (Belváros)

To/From Buda

On the Underground

All four of the Budapest Metro lines can be used to get to the V. District:

• Line starts in northeastern East Pest and goes southwest with stops in Central Pest district at Bajcsy-Zsilinszky út (near Szent Isztvan Bazilika), Deák Ferenc tér and Vörösmarty tér.
• Line links the main sights of Buda and Pest. Running through Hegyvidék along the borders of It starts in Víziváros , it starts at the Deli Station and continues to Széll Kálmán tér (at the northwestern foothills of the Buda hills) and to the Batthyány tér at the namesake Danube promenade and the northeastern foothills. In the V. District, it has stations at Kossuth Lajos tér (in front of the Parliament) and Deák Ferenc tér. It continues further east Blaha Lujza tér (close to many hotels in Central Pest) and then further to Keleti station where most international trains terminate.
• Line runs north-south, stopping at the Nyugati station (where the train from the airport arrives) and Kőbánya-Kispest in South Pest district (where the bus 200E arrives from the airport as well). Within the I. District, the stops are from north to south: Arany János utca, Bajcsy-Zsilinszky út (both close to the Szent Isztvan Bazilika), Deák Ferenc tér (transfer possibility to lines 1 and 2), Ferenciek tere and Kálvin tér. The northern end the line is in New Pest (Újpest Centre) which is part of North Pest district.
• Line links Belvaros with Újbuda and Tétény. It stops at Szent Gellért tér (for the Geller baths and hotel) and continues to Fővám tér (for the southern end of Vaci utca) and Kálvin tér. This line terminates at the Keleti station further east.

Coming from districts of middle Buda (Víziváros and Hegyvidék), you can cross the Danube with Metro line 2 Important stops are Kossuth Lajos Square (get off here to see the Parliament), Deák Ferenc Square (major transport hub), and Keleti pályaudvar (railway station). Also Metro line 4 links south Downtown with Újbuda and Tétény. Catch it at Fovam Square ('Fővám tér') or Kalvin Square (Kálvin tér). These are maybe the fastest way.

On the surface streets

The Downtown is linked to Buda with five bridges. If you have time and the weather allows it, walk across one (or more) of these bridges.

Downtown and Víziváros on the Buda side are connected by two bridges:

• 1 Chain Bridge (Széchenyi lánchíd). Using bus 16 going to the Castle and bus 105 stops both side at foot of Castle Hill (west and east) take you mid part of Inner Buda, then terminated at the lower part of Hegyvidék, both of them could catch at Deak Square (updated Nov 2016)
• 2 Elisabeth Bridge (Erzsébet híd). Buses 15 and 178 go parallel with Danube at Castle Hill western side, buses 8E and 108E use also this bridge and take you to Gellért Hill a couple of blocks from Citadell. Bus 7 links with Danube side of Gellert Hill and further Moricz Zsigmond Square. (updated Nov 2016)

You can also take one of the trams that travel across the bridges. Trams 4 and 6 cross the Danube river twice.

• 3 Margaret Bridge (Margit híd) (At north). It connects with Óbuda (Old Buda) district and by 'Széll Kálmán Square' connected with Hegyvidék (the Mount area of Buda) district. (updated Nov 2016)
• 4 Petőfi Bridge (the south Danube crossing outside of Belvaros and thus not covered in this guide). It links the inner ring road (Nagykörút) of Pest with south Buda, Újbuda and Tétény. (updated Nov 2016)

Trams 47, 48 and 49 are also good options exploring this area and also made connection, via Liberty Bridge Újbuda and Tétény (New Buda) which is the southern part of Buda.

On the water

Take a boat from Pest side Vigado Square (Vigadó tér) to a pier at 'Batthyany Square' on Buda side.

Get around

By public transport

Tram line No. 2, 2B and 23 runs along the Danube river and offers a beautiful view of Buda.

By foot

The district's size makes it walkable. Almost every part can be suggested for a sightseeing walk, except the noisy Kossuth Lajos street. The best of these walks is the Promenad (or Corso) extending from the northern Margaret Bridge (Margit híd) toward south to Liberty Bridge. The pedestrianized Vaci utca makes for a very natural walk, with its many historic buildings, shops, cafes restaurants, starting from Vorosmarty Square ( 'Vörösmarty tér') to Fovam Square (' 'Fővám tér')

Parking

Payment parking in Budapest is split into five zones. The Belváros/Downtown entire area is in zone 2 . Each hour costs Ft440 between 08:00-20:00, max. three hours. Payable by cash or parking card or via mobilephone.

• 5 Underground parking (MÉLYGARÁZS), Szent István tér, Sas utca ( : 'Bajcsy-Zsilinszky út'), ☏ +36 1 794-5071, fax: +36 1 269-0837, melygarazs@mail.tvnet.hu. 24/7. M 13:00-18:00, W 09:00-16:00, F 08:00-12:00 .+email=bazilikamelygarazs@gmail.com . Other service: bicycle rental. Monthly rent Ft53,300, Daily storage Ft9,600, 'Terminal' every half hour 350, parking in the first hour: Ft600 and Ft250 each half an hour. Parking chip deposit Ft5000,. 

See

The Parliament

The Hungarian Parliament with the Danube River

• 1 Parliament (Országház), V. Kossuth Lajos tér ( Kossuth tér or tram: 2, 2B, 23 to 'Kossuth tér'). On specific times during the day, and you have to get your ticket in advance for a timed slot. Tickets are sold out by about 11:00. At the visistor centre you can only buy tickets for the same day, but you can purchase tickets online in advance. The Hungarian National Parliament building is the largest in Europe, designed by architect Imre Steindl for the 1896 millennial celebrations, and built 1880-1902. It is based on England's Parliament building, and supposedly is one meter wider and longer than that building, just a little bit of architectural conceit. The building is so immense, the weak alluvial soil along the Danube had to be reinforced with a 2-m (7-foot) deep concrete foundation. Not surprising, as the building is 270 m long and 125 m wide, with 691 rooms and 20 km (12.5 miles) of corridors. The lacy white neo-Gothic froth covering the building is actually educational: 88 statues representing Hungarian rulers, princes and military commanders. These statues are small and cannot be readily distinguished from the ground, but they are there. For EU citizens: Ft2200, non-EU: Ft5200 adults, free for children under 6 years. 

Hungarian crown jewels in the Parliament

Under the Parliament's cupola the Hungarian crown jewels are exhibited. After World War II, the medieval crown (last used in 1916) was taken out of the country by escaping Hungarian fascists, ending up in the United States. President Carter returned the crown to the Hungarian state in 1978, accompanied by a large American delegation. It was exhibited in the National Museum until 2000 when it was moved to its present location. Tours lasts ~40 minutes. Come back at the specified time on your ticket and join the "with tickets" queue to the right. The tourist information gives tour times for the various languages (e.g. English is 10:00, noon and 14:00), your ticket may have a different time on it, like 10:15, this is because there is more than 1 tour around the times listed, so you will not join the 10:00 tour, but the 10:15 tour. The end result of this system is that at first glance, there are people standing in a very slow moving queue, with occasional tourists wandering into an unmarked door in the corner of the building. Suddenly, a large group of people will appear and jump the queue and wander through the security fence (this is a timed tour starting), the guards are not tour advisors and will not tell you if they are sold out of tickets, or if a tour is starting, or that you are in the wrong queue. Parliament is in session Monday and Tuesday, but tours still operate. For the time of your language tour get the slip of paper from a tourist information office.

Along the Danube

• 2 Danube Promenade (Duna Korzó), V. ( Ferenciek tere or : 'Vörösmarty tér'). On the bank of the Danube, this promenade extends from the Széchenyi Chain Bridge to the Erzsébet Bridge. - In the midst of boxes of glass hotels is the eccentric Neo-Byzantine Vigadó Concert Hall, which survived the building boom of the late 1960s. Behind the Vigadó is the local hub of the city, Vörösmarty tér (a square), named after the 19th-century poet Mihály Vörösmarty. The traditional Gerbeaud coffeehouse has long been a great people watching spot. Váci utca and environs is the area for chic clothing, used books, folk art and sidewalk cafés. Further along the promenade is Március 15 tér, where the remains of a Roman bastion, Contra-Aquincum, were discovered, The Inner City Parish Church’s simple exterior conceals a colorful past: it began as a Romanesque basilica, was used as a mosque and was finally reconceived in the Baroque style in the 18th century. The following sculptures are along or around the promenade: István Széchenyi - near to the Hungarian Academy of Sciences; József Eötvös - 1879 sculptor Huszár Adolf; Hungarian Seaman Memorial - the anchor of "Ungvár" (copy) - Szende Pál utca; József Nádor Archduke Joseph, Palatine of Hungary; Little Princess - near to Vigadó Concert Hall; Attila József - famous poet of "At the Danube" also by László Marton (sculptor) at Hungarian Parliament Building; Mihály Vörösmarty; William Shakespeare; Petőfi Sándor; Shoes on the Danube Promenade Gyula Pauer and Can Togay - April 16. 2005. 

Pesti Vigado seen over the Danube

• 3 Vigadó Concert Hall (Pesti Vigadó), V. Vigadó tér, 2 ( Ferenciek tere or Vörösmarty tér or tram: 2, 2B, 23), ☏ +36 20 429 4124. Usually translated as "Place for Merriment" is Budapest's second largest concert hall, located on the Eastern bank of the Danube. Although the acoustics are lacking, the building itself, designed by Frigyes Feszl in 1859, makes a bold impression along the Pest embankment. Built in romantic style with eastern (Moorish) elements. Inaugurated in January 1865, at ceremonial ball. The interior is decorated with frescoes by Károly Lotz and Mór Than. The majority of statues by sculptor Alexy Károly. The Budai Vigadó is the home stage of the Hungarian State Folk Ensemble (the House of Traditions). The group started in 1951 with Hungarian traditional dance and music. The group consists of 30 dancers, a Gypsy band of 14, and a 5-member folk band. 

The main building of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences

• 4 Hungarian Academy of Sciences (Magyar Tudományos Akadémia, MTA), V. Széchenyi István tér 9. 3rd floor (bus 16, 105 from : Deák Ferenc tér, or tram: 2, 2B, 23), ☏ +36 1 411-6100, info@titkarsag.mta.hu. M & F 11:00-16:00. This is the most important and prestigious learned society of Hungary. Its seat is at the bank of the Danube in Budapest. Visit MTA's Collection of Art (Művészeti Gyűjtemény) In the exhibition rooms of the former Esterházy Gallery on the third floor of the Academy, contains portraits, landscapes, historical genre paintings, archaeological drawings, as well as the noted 19th-century gynaecologist Gyula Elischer's Goethe Collection, and the fine art objects of the Széchenyi Museum. The richest donation to this collection was made by Count István Széchenyi. 
• 5 Kossuth Museumship (Kossuth Múzeumhajó), V. Vígadó Square boat station, No. 2 pier (Tram 2, 2B, 23 to Eötvös tér stop or walk from : Vörösmarty tér), ☏ +36 1 411-0942, venhajo@europahajo.hu. Daily 12:00-24:00. Built in 1913, the Újpest Shipyard (North Pest district) and was given the name Duke Ferencz Ferdinand. The capacity of vessel: 800-1200 person. The length 62.38 m, maximum width of 16.5 m. Coal, and later oil-heated boilers produced steam for the 580-horsepower steam engine. During the Soviet Republic named the Rigó (Blackbird), from 1930 known as Leányfalu (village on Danube Bend) travelled. The present name was given in 1953. 1979 traveled to the Danube. Since 1984, the property of the Museum of Transport. Rented for restaurant 'Vénhajo' 
• 6 Little Princess statue (Kis Herceg szobor, 'Kiskirálylány'), V. Pesti alsó rakpart (near Vigado ter) (tram: 2, 2B, 23 to Vigadó tér stop). 24/7. A bronze statue created by László Morton, a child sitting on the fence of the tram, on bank of Danube Free. 

Shoes on the Danube

• 7 Shoes on the Danube memorial (Cipők a Duna-parton), On the Danube Promenade near corner Zoltán utca (tram: 2, 2B, 23 to Kossuth Lajos tér stop). 24/7. The shoes are placed there in memory of the Jews who were shot into the Danube during World War II. Free.  
• 8 Gresham Palace (Gresham-palota Four Seasons Hotel), V. Széchenyi István tér 5-6 (Bus 16, 105 to Széchenyi István tér), ☏ +36 1 268-6000. The site was once occupied by Nákó House, a neo-classical palace built in 1827. In 1880, the London-based Gresham Life Assurance Company bought the property. The palace served as an office building and a home for wealthy British aristocrats associated with the Gresham company. Original details restored by the Irish Investment company Quinlan Private include a large staircase, stained glass, mosaics, ironwork and wintergardens. 

Bridges

Chain Bridge, the oldest, arguably most beautiful of Budapest's bridges

• 9 Szechenyi Chain Bridge (Széchenyi lánchíd) (V.). Hungarian pronunciation: [ˈseːt͡ʃeːɲi ˈlaːntshiːd]). This is a suspension bridge that spans the River Danube between Buda and Pest, the western and eastern sides of Budapest, the capital of Hungary. Designed by the English engineer William Tierney Clark, it was the first permanent bridge across the Danube in Budapest, and was opened in 1849. (It is a larger scale version of William Tierney Clark's earlier Marlow Bridge, across the River Thames in Marlow, England.) It is also the oldest permanent bridge on the Danube. It is anchored on the Pest side of the river to Széchenyi (formerly Roosevelt) Square, adjacent to the Gresham Palace and the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, and on the Buda side to Adam Clark Square, near the Zero Kilometer Stone and the lower end of the Castle Hill Funicular, leading to Buda Castle. The bridge has the name of István Széchenyi, a major supporter of its construction, attached to it, but is most commonly known as the Chain Bridge. At the time of its construction, it was regarded as one of the modern world's engineering wonders. It has asserted an enormous significance in the country's economic, social and cultural life, much as the Brooklyn Bridge has in New York and United States of America. Its decorations made of cast iron, and its construction, radiating calm dignity and balance, have elevated the Chain Bridge to a high stature in Europe. It became a symbol of advancement, national awakening, and the linkage between East and West. - The bridge was opened in 1849, and thus became the first permanent bridge in the Hungarian capital, after the Hungarian Revolution of 1848. At the time, its center span of 202 m was one of the largest in the world. The lions at each of the abutments were carved in stone in 1852, by the sculptor, János Marschalkó. They are visibly similar in design to the famous bronze lions of Trafalgar Square by Edwin Henry Landseer with Marochetti, installed 1867. They are also smaller (and appear from below to lack tongues). The bridge was given its current name in 1898. 
• 10 Margaret Bridge (Margit híd), V. Szent István körút (tram: 4, 6 to stop 'Jászai Mari tér'). This is a three-way bridge, connecting Buda and Pest across the Danube. It is the second oldest public bridge in Budapest. It was designed by French engineer Ernest Goüin and built between 1872–1876. This bridge leads up to Margaret Island, its two parts enclosing 165 degrees with each other at the embranchment towards the island. The reason for this unusual geometry is the fact the small extension to connect to Margaret Island was hastily inserted into the original design but not built until two decades later due to lack of funds. It is 637.5 m in length and 25 m in width. 
• 11 Elizabeth Bridge (Erzsébet híd), V. (Between March 15 Square (in Pest) and Döbrentei Square (in Buda)). This bridge at the narrowest part of the Danube in the Budapest area spans only 290 m. It is named after Elisabeth of Bavaria, her large bronze statue sits by the bridge's Buda side connection in the middle of a small garden. 
• 12 Liberty Bridge (Szabadság híd, Ferencz József híd, Fővám téri híd), V. Fővám tér (tram: 2, 2B, 23 to 'Fővám tér', Kálvin tér + tram: 47, 48, 49 to stop 'Fővám tér'). 24/7. The bridge was built between 1894 and 1896 to the plans of János Feketeházy. Although radically different in structure, the bridge imitates the general outline of a chain-type bridge, this is a Gerber truss structure bridge. The bridge was opened in the presence of Emperor Franz Joseph; the last silver rivet on the Pest abutment was inserted into the iron structure by the Emperor, and the bridge was originally named after him. It is 333.6 m in length and 20.1 m in width the maximum span 170.75 m, number of 'openings' 3, with two lanes and a tram. The top of the four masts are decorated with large bronze statues of the Turul, a falcon-like bird, prominent in ancient Hungarian mythology. 

Lipótváros

St. Stephen Basilica, the biggest church in Budapest. Western facade

• 13 St. Stephen (István) Basilica (Szent István Bazilika), V. Szent István tér 1 ( : Arany János utca, OR : Deák Ferenc tér), ☏ +36 1 311-0839. 9.00-19.00. Though often called "the Basilica" for short due to its clerical rank as a basilica minor, it actually is shaped like a Greek cross, with two steeples and a dome on top. Designed by Miklós Ybl and József Hild, and built 1851-1905, it is as high as the Parliament building (96m) -- it's the highest church in Budapest. It was built here because hundreds of people survived the great flood of 1838 on this spot. Walking in the main entrance, after climbing a series of stairs, the viewer is first greeted with a relief of St Stephen, then a mosaic of Christ's resurrection. There are many notable mosaics in this church, especially those within the dome designed by Károly Lotz, best known for his ceiling frescoes in the State Opera and Ethnographic Museum. While designed here, the mosaics were made in Venice. The foremost Hungarian artists of the day designed the artworks within St Stephen's, among them Bertalan Székely, Gyula Benczúr and two men also known for their work in the Opera, Mór Than and Alajos Stróbl. Here Stróbl contributed the central statue of St Stephen on the main altar. In the left hand chapel is the "Chapel of the sacred right hand" this is pretty surreal as St Stephen's surviving hand in a glass box, lovely. Organ Concerts in the Basilica see to do chapter. A donation of Ft200 is expected at the entrance. For an extra fee visit the very top of the Basilica to get a wonderful view. 
• 14 Lajos Kossuth Square (Kossuth Lajos tér), V. Lajos Kossuth Square ( 'Kossuth Lajos tér' or bus 15 or tram: 2, 2B, 23 or trolleybus 70 and 78). This square is situated in the Lipótváros neighbourhood of Budapest, District V, on the bank of the Danube. Its most notable landmark is the Hungarian Parliament Building (Hungarian: Országház). There is a station of the M2 (East-West) line of the Budapest Metro on the square. The square, renamed in 1927 in honor of Lajos Kossuth, has been known by several names including; Országház tér ("Parliament Square") (1898–1927), Tömő tér or Stadt Schopper Platz in German ("Landfill Square") (1853–1898). In the second half of the 19th century, great public buildings were erected on the square and it became the symbolic centre of the Hungarian state. The Hungarian Parliament Building is located on the square. Facing the Parliament, the Museum of Ethnography (originally the Palace of Justice) and the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development can be found. In front of the Parliament building are the Kossuth Memorial and an equestrian statue of Francis II Rákóczi, as well as a memorial for the 1956 Hungarian Revolution. A modern statue of Attila József is nearby, south of the Parliament, sitting on the bank of the river (actually he is sitting on a grassy mound quite far from the water) as described in his poem By the Danube. There is also a monument for Imre Nagy located on the square 
• 15 Glass House (Üvegház), V. Vadász u., 29 ( : Arany János utca). 13.00 - 16.00 open every day. During the Holocaust, the Swiss diplomat Carl Lutz helped Jews in Budapest in many ways, including protection here. (updated Jul 2018)

The imposing facade of the National Bank of Hungary

• 16 Kossuth Memorial (Kossuth Emlékmű), V. Lajos Kossuth Square ( : Kossuth Lajos tér). 24/7. A public monument dedicated to former Hungarian Regent-President Lajos Kossuth in front of the Hungarian Parliament Building. The memorial is an important Hungarian national symbol and scene of official celebrations. The group depicted the members of the first Hungarian parliamentary government: Lajos Kossuth (in the middle), Pál Eszterházy, Gábor Klauzál, József Eötvös, István Széchenyi, Prime Minister Lajos Batthyány, Bertalan Szemere, Ferenc Deák and Lázár Mészáros. Horvay’s composition was criticised because Kossuth played only a minor constitutional role in the first cabinet. Art critics condemned the melancholic atmosphere of the memorial and the sculpture remained somewhat unpopular. 

The Ethnographical Museum of Budapest

• 17 Ethnographic Museum (Néprajzi Múzeum), V. Kossuth Lajos tér 12 ( : Arany János utca 500m or tram 2, 2B, 23; bus 15 and trolley 70 and 78; Across from Parliament), ☏ +36 1 473-2440, info@neprajz.hu. Tu-Su 10.00-18.00. Sometimes said to resemble the Reichstag (parliament) building in Berlin, the white neo-Renaissance façade complements the neo-Gothic Parliament building just across the square. Do not miss the richly decorated interior, including the ceiling frescoes by Károly Lotz (who also frescoed the State Opera's ceiling). The building was used to house the Supreme Court and chief public prosecutor's office, explaining some of the motifs used in the frescoes. Closed till 2020 Normal fee:€3.4, with temporary exhibitions: €5, discounted:half price both. (updated Sep 2018)
• 18 Ministry of Finance (Pénzügyminisztérium), V. József nádor tér 2-4 ( Vörösmarty tér). It is a former bank building. Built between 1909-1913, by Alpár Ignác, in late eclectic Art Nouveau style. A five-story stone covered brick building with Patio. 

The ornate gables of the Postatakarékpénztár

• 19 Former Hungarian Royal Post Office Savings Bank (Magyar Királyi Postatakarékpénztár, Postatakarékpénztár), V. Hold u., 4 ( Arany János utca). Built in 1901, by Arch. Lechner Odon in Art Nouveau style. The Lechner's Art Nouveau features the Hungarian floral motifs and colorful ceramic tiles and majolica. The gables are decorated with golden beehives, as the gathering and saving symbols. 
• 20 U.S. Embassy (Amerikai Nagykövetség, Amerikai Egyesült Államok budapesti nagykövetsége), V. Szabadság tér 12 ( Kossuth tér), ☏ +36 1 475-4400, fax: +36 1 475-4764, acs.budapest@state.gov. M-F 8:00-17:00. The building designed by Kármán Aladár and Ullman Gyula architect and built in 1900. The Chamber of Commerce owned the building, and then the Hungarian Royal Post Office Savings Bank. 
• 21 Ministry of Justice and Law Enforcement (Igazságügyi és Rendészeti Minisztérium), V. Kossuth Lajos tér 2-4 ( 'Kossuth Lajos tér'), ☏ +36 1 795 1000, +36 1 301-2824, fax: +36 1 441-3711, ugyfelszolgalat@irm.gov.hu. Protected architectural monument 
• 22 Prison Service Headquarters (Büntetés-végrehajtás Országos Parancsnoksága), V. Steindl Imre u. 8 ( 'Kossuth Lajos tér'), ☏ +36 1 301-8100, bv@bv.gov.hu. Protected architectural monument 
• 23 Budapest Metropolitan Tribunal (Curia of Hungary Kúria, Fővárosi Törvényszék), V. Markó u. 27. ( Deák Ferenc tér), ☏ +36 1 354 6000. Protected architectural monument 
• 24 Budapest Business School (BGF), College Commerce, Catering Tourism (CCCT, Budapest Gazdasági Főiskola (BGF) Kereskedelmi, Vendéglátóipari és Idegenforgalmi Kar), V. Alkotmány utca 9-11 ( Deák Ferenc tér), ☏ +36 1 374 6200. Two statues located in front of the building. A Hermes statue with approx. 200 cm rectangular stone pedestal. The Hermes statue stay on a sphere top of a Ionic pillar. Hermes left hand holds a purse, on Legs are little wings.(Dealers patron). The other statue is a bronze, 2-m-high winged female figure with a torch. 
• 25 Batthyány candle (Batthyány-örökmécses), V.Báthory utca (Báthory Street and Hold Street corner. - Kossuth tér). A historical monument. At this point on 6 October 1849, Count Lajos Batthyány was executed. He was the first prime minister of Hungary (between 1807 and 1849). 
• 26 F4 Object (Rákosi bunker), V. Steindl Imre utca 12 (entrance) ( Kossuth tér). By appointment. It was a secret nuclear shelter under the downtown of Budapest. It is located 45-50 metres below the surface, several kilometres long approximately in a "H" shape between Kossuth tér and Szabadság tér. It has a direct connection to the Line 2 of the Budapest Metro and a closed tunnel to the Hungarian Parliament Building. According to other sources, the bunker has a connection with the former headquarters of the Hungarian Working People's Party 

Belvaros

The Lutheran church at Deak Square

• 27 Deak Square Lutheran Church (Deák téri evangélikus templom), V. Deak Square, 4 ( 'Deák Ferenc tér'), ☏ +36 1 483 21 50, fax: +36 1 483 21 51, deakter@lutheran.hu. The parish office is open weekdays 9.00-13.00. Budapest's oldest and the best-known evangelical church built in Classical style room-church without a tower. The church facade is decorated with four Doric pilasters, overhead with Triglyph decoration and with triangular gable. The building is covered a huge, domed metal roof structure. The interior is a compact, rectangular hall with double choir. The altar painted by Michael Pollack, a version of Raphael's transfiguration. The red marble pulpit and baptismal font made by Dunaiszky Lawrence. 

Parizsi udvar

• 28 Parisi yard (Párisi udvar, Brudern-ház), V. Ferenciek tere, 10 ( 'Ferenciek tere'). This is a residential and office building what built in eclectic style, in 1912. It used to be the headquarters of the Metropolitan Savings Bank (Belvárosi Takarékpénztár). A part of it is the Paris court. Budapest is only one still remaining shopping yard from the 1900s. Inner height is 29m, building height is 40 m. 
• 29 St. Anna Church Szervita (Belvárosi Szent Anna Szervita Templom), V. Szervita tér, 6 ( 'Vörösmarty tér' or 'Deák Ferenc tér'). By the end of World War II, worked in the management of Servite Order, mow belongs to the Assumption parish of Downtown. Built between 1725-1732. This is a single nave church. The main facade decorated with stoneslab and plaster in Neo-Renaissance style. It has got a square-shaped tower in middle. On the other side, the facade shows Baroque elements, with lyre-shaped windows. The main facade of the church is four-storey, the tower is two-storey. The main sill with balustrade's Attica crowned. In the middle part of the top is a tympanum. A Statue of St. Florian can find at the Apse of the church. 
• 30 Vaci utca (Váci utca, Bécsi utca mahallé, Nagy utca mahallé), V. Vaci utca (North End at Vörösmarty tér 2., the South is Fővám tér 5) ( Vörösmarty tér). This is one of the main pedestrian thoroughfares and perhaps the most famous street of central Budapest. It was the first shopping street in Budapest. Back in 1690 it was called Lipot Street and it stratched into the Vaci Gate, the North exit of the city. It features restaurants and shops catering primarily to the tourist market. No. 4 Ferenc Bene House: built in 1840 was designed by József Hild is a three-storey neoclassical house with seven windows. No. 9 Seven elector-house, former Nako House, built (this edition) in 1840, former a hotel was here (German) 'Zu den sieben Kurfürsten-Gastgeber' (lit. Seven Elector-hotel). Three-storey house with 15 windows and each floor with Doric colonnade. No.10 Three-storey, classicist house with ten windows. The arched doorways with 'Czech cap'. There is a semicircular staircase with wood balustrade. 
• 31 Vigado Square (Vigadó tér), V. Vigadó tér (tram: 2, 2B, 23). The girl with a dog sculpture by Raffay Dávid, Fountain of With Water playing children. 
• 32 Vörösmarty Square (Vörösmarty tér), V. ( 'Vörösmarty tér'). - Sights: Fountain with Lions, Vörösmarty Mihály (hungarian poet) sculpture, Gerbeaud House, ING-Office Building. - It has been called: from 1812 Theatrom piatcza, from 1830s Harmincad tere (German: Dreysigstplatz), from 1833 Játékszín square, since the 1840s Séta square (German: Spazierenplatz), from 1846 Német Színház square (German: Deutsche Theaterplatz), from 1850 Színház square (German: Theaterplatz), from 1866-tól Régi Színház square (German: Alte Theaterplatz), from 1874 Gizella square, from 1918 Károlyi Mihály tér, and since 1926 Vörösmarty square. 

Lajos Kossuth memorial on the namesake square

• 33 Theotokos had died Assumption Hungarian Orthodox Cathedral (Orthodox Church, Istenszülő elhunyta Nagyboldogasszony magyar ortodox székesegyház, Ortodox templom, Greek: Ουγγρικης Ενοριας Τησ Κοιμησεως Τησ Θεοτοκου, Russian: Венгерский православный собор Успения Пресвятой Богородицы), V. Petőfi tér 2. ( : 'Ferenciek tere'), ☏ +36 1 266 5988, moehiv2010@gmail.com. 
• 34 Clotilde Palace (Klotild Palota), V. Ferenciek tere ( : 'Ferenciek tere'). This is a typical eclectic building. It ts look like the Gate of Elisabeth Bridge from the Rákóczi road. Built in 1899–1902. The twin towers are steel structure buildings. They were covered in carved stone cladding. The towers are 48 m high, and the tops of them adorned with a replica of the crown of the prince. On the ground floor were or are cafes, shops, galleries, above these are offices and apartments. Now there is the five star Buddha Bar Hotel and a casino. The south tower nickname is Mathilde, the northern is Klotild. 
• 35 Inner City Parish Church (Belvárosi plébániatemplom, Nagyboldogasszony Főplébánia), V. Március 15. tér, 2 ( : 'Ferenciek tere'), info@belvarosiplebania.hu. Mar-Dec: daily 10.00-19.00. Built in the base of Contra-Aquincum fortification walls. The church earliest parts built in Romanesque style. Here is buried in 1046, Bishop Gellert. It was rebuilt in the Gothic style, with King Sigismund support in 14th century. During the reign of King Matthias (1470s), with two more aisles widened. During the Turkish rule was used as a mosque. You can see a mihrab (prayer niche), from the Turkish period, in the south-east wall of the sanctuary. After a fire in 1723 it was rebuilt in Baroque style, between 1725-1739. 

Remnants of Contra-Aquincom

• 36 Remnants of Contra-Aquincum (Pesszion (Πέσσιον)), March 15 tér (Square), north from Erzsébet Bridge. (tram: 2, 2B, 23 or Ferenciek tere and walk 300 m). 24/7. It is called Contra-Aquincum because it is opposite the Roman town on the western side which is known as Aquincum. It was a Roman fort, an important station in the Pannonian limes. It was built around 100 CE, rebuilt in 290. Its significance is: unusually thick walls, control of the eravisk (a Celtic local folk group) "capital" and control of crossing an ancient trading port. Contra-Aquincum ancient name was presumably Pesszion (Πέσσιον). You can see here some plaque on the floor, about Roman forts around Budapest and Pannonia (this last one was an ancient province of the Roman Empire and located over the territory of the present-day western Hungary). Free. 
• 37 Former Poor Clares monastery (Klarissza kolostor), V. Szerb utca 21–23. ( Ferenciek tere walk toward south ~300m). - Now is part of Eotvos Lorant University (ELTE). 
• 38 Eötvös Lorand University (Eötvös Loránd Tudományegyetem, abbr.:ELTE), V, Egyetem tér 1-3 (next to University (Egyetemi) church, north of M3, M4 Kálvin tér station), ☏ +36 1 411 6500. Here is the center of the Eötvös Lorand University which is the oldest university with the biggest history in Budapest and the whole country. It was founded in 1635 in Trnava, and it was moved to Budapest only in 1777. 

Do

Boating

• 1 Boat trip to Margaret Island (Margitszigeti Sétahajójárat), V. Vigadó tér ( : Ferenciek tere, or tram: 2, 2B, 23), ☏ +36 1-318-1223, ertekesites@mahartpassnave.hu. May-Aug: four a daily; off season only weekends. You don't want to miss a boat trip on River Danube! Then you can enjoy both riverbanks and the bridges at the very same time. It is especially spectacular at night. This boat has guiding in 11 languages, and makes a non-stop round trip in about 1 hour. There is a cheaper boat line operated by BKV, which leave from Boráros tér, and makes a stop at other places too, such as Batthyány tér, Jászai Mari tér or Margitsziget. Of course you can take the boat the opposite direction too, however a round trip is not recommended, because the route is really long, and you'll have to buy two tickets. This line does not have any kind of tour guiding. crossing €2, RW ticket €4. 
• 2 Cruising and eating, Zrínyi street 5 (Danube Palace), ☏ +36 1 3171377, hunkonc@ticket.info.hu. Daily 09:00-19:00. If you would like see the attraction of Danube and eat something you can book tickets for lunch & cruise, dinner & cruise with live music. These cruising includes 3 drinks, warm buffet meals. Ft10,800. 

Cinemas

• 3 Cinema Puskin (Puskin Mozi), Kossuth Lajos utca 18 ( : Astoria, : Ferenciek tere), ☏ +36 1 429 6080. 10:00-23:00. “Pushkin” is the most mainstream among the art house movie theatres in Budapest, an elegant, decorated multiplex offering quality, but generally easy-to-watch Hungarian and foreign films. Its café is recommended. Ft800-1050. 

Concert

• 4 Basilica organ concerts (Bazika orgona koncertek), Szent István tér 1 ( : Bajcsy-Zsilinszky út, : Arany János utca). 11 Apr-30 Nov: Thursday. hosts organ concerts by Miklós Teleki, one of Hungary's most highly regarded organists. During his performance he is accompanied by renowned flutist Eleonora Krusic, and oratorio singer Kolos Kováts. 

Cycling

• 5 ZedBike Bicycle Rental and Repair (ZedBike Kerékpárkölcsönző és Szerviz), V. Károly körút 10 ( : Astoria), ☏ +36 20-247-2655, rent@zedbike.hu. M-F 10.00 – 18.00. "Rent a Bike" service Half day: Ft2000, one day Ft3000, one and half days Ft4000, two days Ft5000, two and half days Ft6000, 3 days or more: Ft2500 per day. Deposit: Ft15,000-25,000. 

Fitness

• 6 Astoria Fitness Center, V. Károly körút 4. ( : Astoria), ☏ +36 1 3170452, eckert.gyula@astoriafitness.hu. M-F 06:30-24:00, Sa-Su 10:00-21:00. Services:Indoor cycling, aerobic, pilates, bodybuilding, cardio, massage, sauna, solarium, personal fitness trainers, gym coach, fitness buffet. Daily ticket Ft1700. 

Kayaking and canoeing

• 7 Budapest Bike Breeze, Deak ter. 4 ( : 'Deák Ferenc tér'), ☏ +36 20 4885954, bpbikebreeze@gmail.com. Canoeing, bike riding €17, 3-4 hours, canoe tour. 

Parks

• 8 Karoly Garden (Karolyi Kert), V. Karolyi Mihaly utca 16 (It is near to the : Astoria). The Park has sandboxs, jungle gyms and seats. 
• 9 Park of Kossuth Lajos Square (Kossuth Lajos tér parkja, previously known by several names including; Országház tér ("Parliament Square") (1898–1927), Tömő tér or Stadt Schopper Platz in German ("Landfill Square")(1853–1898).), V. Kossuth Lajos tér ( : Kossuth Lajos tér, tram 2, 2B, 23, trolley 70, 78). 24/7. The area of green space is 25,000m². The trees are: Silver firs, yews and large magnolias. Also here the largest flower garden of the district II. (over 600m²). And there are a coüple sculptures such II. Rákóczi equestrian statue ( was a Hungarian nobleman and leader of the Hungarian uprising against the Habsburgs in 1703-11 as the prince (fejedelem) of the Estates Confederated for Liberty of the Kingdom of Hungary. He was also Prince of Transylvania, an Imperial Prince, and a member of the Order of the Golden Fleece. Today he is considered a national hero in Hungary.) On the south side of the square sits the poet Attila József (accord to the legend he sat,-in nearby, on the bank of the river and wrote his famous poem By the Danube); on the northern part of the park is the Kossuth monument (Lajos Kossuth was a Hungarian lawyer, journalist, politician and Regent-President of the Kingdom of Hungary during the revolution of 1848–49.) and a full-length statue of Count István Tisza, a renewed version of the origin made by Imre Elek. Free. 

A part of the Red Army Monument on the Szabadság Square with the in the background

• 10 Park of Szabadság Square (Szabadság tér parkja), V. Szabadság tér ( : Arany János utca or : Kossuth Lajos tér metro stations are in walking distance). 24/7. This grove park found by Count Szechenyi, his English wife planted the fisrt sycamore with shout: Virulj! (meaning: Flourish!). The green area is 25,000 m². The memorial fountain on the square made by Ede Telcs and Andor Meszaros in 1930. Free. 
• 11 Park of Széchenyi István tér (Széchenyi István tér parkja), V. Széchenyi István tér (Tram 2, 2B, 23). 24/7. Former named like „Rakpiac"(Loading Market), Lánchíd Square, Ferenc József Square. - Here is the first and one of the nicest Hungarian bridge the Chain Bridge. On the northern side of the square is the building of the Headquarters of the Academy of Sciences. East side is Gresham Palace, and building of the former Pest Hungarian Commercial Bank. In 1880 erected a sculpture of Count István Széchenyi, in 1887 (Count István Széchenyi de Sárvár-Felsővidék (Hungarian: [ˈiʃtvaːn ˈseːtʃeːɲi]; 1791–1860) was a Hungarian politician, theorist and writer, one of the greatest statesmen of Hungarian history) here is also another sculpture made to Ferenc Deák,who was a Hungarian statesman and Minister of Justice; he was known as "The Wise Man of the Nation". The park area is more than one hectare with many 'park' trees and evergreen trees. There is a 220-year-old Acacia, supported by crutches. The Széchenyi sculpture is surrounded by huge sycamore Free. 

Theatre

• 12 Danube Palace (Duna Palota), 1051 Zrínyi u. 5 ( : Deák Ferenc tér, : Arany János utca), ☏ +36 1 235 5500. Daily 20:00. Folklore performances, concerts & exhibitions. Ft3,600-6,400, discounts available for students. (updated Aug 2019)
• 13 Arany tíz Cultural Center (Aranytiz Kultúrház), Arany János utca 10. (Tram 2, 2B, 23 to stop 'Széchenyi István tér' or : Kossuth tér metro station or M3 Arany Janos utca metro station), ☏ +36 1 354 3400, fax: +36 1 354-3404, aranytiz@aranytiz.hu. Events theatrical performances, pop and classical music concerts, exhibitions, film, dance and visual arts presentations. The building was built in eclectic neo-Renaissance style in 1879-1880. Free Wi-Fi (password information at reception desk). Cafe Oro. (updated Aug 2019)

Buy

Banks

• 1 CIB Bank, Kálvin Square branch (CIB Bank, Kálvin téri Fiók), V. Kálvin tér 4 ( : 'Kálvin tér'), ☏ +36 40 242242, fax: +36 1 489-6138, kalvinter@cib.hu. M 08:30-18:00, Tu-Th 08:30-16:00, F 08:30-15:00. ATM 0-24. +phone=+36 Other unit: Szabadság square branch, (V, Szabadság tér 15. open: M, Tu, Th 08:30-16:00, W 08:30-18:00, F 08:30-15:00), Szent István Boulvard branch, (V, Szent István krt. 15, open: M, Tu, Th 08:30-16:00, W 08:30-18:00, F 08:30-15:00) 
• Commercial and Credit Bank (Kereskedelmi és Hitelbank), Arany J. u. 20. ( : Arany János utca), ☏ +36 1 374 1700, fax: +36 1 353 4235. M 08:00-17:00, Tu-Th 08:00-16:00, F 08:00-15:00. 
  • Commercial and Credit Bank, József Attila utca 24, ☏ +36 1 328 2700. open: M 08:00-17:00, Tu, Th 08:00-16:00, W 08:00-18:00, F 08:00-15:00. 
  • Commercial and Credit Bank, Apáczai Csere János u. 4, ☏ +36 1 327 8080. 
  • Commercial and Credit Bank, Kálvin tér 3, ☏ +36 1 327 7530. 
  • Commercial and Credit Bank, Kossuth L. tér 18, ☏ +36 1 475 2900. open: M 08:00-17:00, Tu, Th 08:00-16:00, W 08:00-18:00, F 08:00-15:00. 
  • Commercial and Credit Bank, Nyugati tér 9, ☏ +36 1 354 2190. 
• 2 Erste Bank, Kossuth Square Branch, Kossuth tér 13-15 (M2 Kossuth tér, tram 2, 2B, 23 to stop 'Országház, látogatóközpont'), ☏ +36 40 222 222. Other units: Párisi Street Branc (Párisi utca 3.), Nyugati téri Branch ( Bajcsy-Zsilinszky út 74.) open same above 
• 3 OTP Bank, V. Nádor u. 6 (Bus 15, 115 to stop 'Zrínyi utca', nearest metro station : 'Deák Ferenc tér' cca. 400 m), ☏ +36 1 3666388, +36 40 366388, +36 40 366 666 (Telecenter), fax: +36 1 3172101. M 08:45-18:00, Tu 08:45-17:00, W 08:45-18:00 Th 08:45-17:00, F 08:45-16:00. Traded currencies: BGN, EUR, PLN, RON, RSD, RUB, USD. - Other units (in 5th district): Deák Ferenc u. 7-9., Ferenciek tere 11., Nádor u. 16., Báthory u. 9., Nyugati tér 9., Szabadság tér 7-8. (Bank Center)., Szent István krt. 1., Széchenyi rkp. 19. (updated Sep 2023)
• 4 MKB Bank (Magyar Külkereskedelmi Bank), V. Váci u. 38 (Bus 8, 8A, 15 to 'Március 15. tér' or : 'Ferenciek tere' 200 m), ☏ +36 1 268-8472, info@mkb.hu. M 08:00-17:30, Tu-Th 08:00-16:30, F 08:00-15:00. MKB headquarters + Other unit (in 5th district): Veres Pálné u. 2 (24h ATM), Hercegprímás utca 10., Türr István u. 9. 

Markets

• 5 Market Hall (Vásárcsarnok), V. Hold utca 11 ( : 'Arany János utca'). 

Supermarkets

• 6 Aldi discount store - Bathory (Aldi-Báthory utca), V. Báthory u. 8. ( : 'Kossuth Lajos tér'), ☏ +36 23 533500. Daily 07.00–21.00. German supermarket chain. 
• 7 CBA Príma - Corso Gourmet, V. Váci u. 54. ( : 'Fővám tér' 200 m), ☏ +36 30 9253619, vevoinfo@cba.hu. M-F 08.00–22.00, Sa, Su shorter. Hungarian supermarket chain. Delicatessen, hungaricums, fruits and vegetables, meat, wine shop, holding consumer goods, snack bar. - Other CBA's in 'Belváros': V. Falk Miksa u. 28, V. Veres Pálné u. 12, V. Apáczai Csere János u. 1., V. Ferenciek tere 2 

Stores

• 8 Holló Workshop Folkart furniture and gifts (Hollo Műhely), V. Vitkovics Mihály u. 12 ( :Ferenciek tere. From Gerloczy Cafe next to Váci út, walk down a side street and you'll find this small shop. Be intentional about looking for it because it's easy to pass by.), ☏ +36 1 3178103, hollomuhely@gmail.com. M-F 10:00-18:00 lunch:13:00-13:30, Sa 10:00-14:00. There are nice painted eggs, wooden boxes and candlesticks, and even furniture there. If you are in town for a while, have the man there personalize eggs or jewelry box with your name--it's free. 
• 9 Mlinar Bakery - Petofi (Mlinar Pékség - Petőfi), V. Petőfi Sándor u. 10. ( : 'Ferenciek tere' at 'Parisi yard'), mlinar.h@mlinar.eu.com. M-F 07.00–20.00, Sa 08.00–15.00. A Croatian bakery chain. Croatian pastries, burek, sandwiches, croissants, pizza. - Also: V. Károly krt. 4 
• 10 VinoPiano Artisan Wine Shop (VinoPiano Kézműves Borkereskedés), V. Vármegye u. 15 ( : 'Astoria'), ☏ +36 30 9216286. M-Sa 10.00–18.00. Wine tasting and shopping. Free Wi-Fi. Wines from all famous Hungarian vineyards: Eger, Mór, Balatonboglár, Villány, Tokaj, Badacsony, Szekszárd, Dörgicse. +phone=+36 30 2730366 
• 11 DM - Drogerie Markt (DM - Szent István körút), V. Szent István körút 11. ( : 'Nyugati pályaudvar' 200 m), ☏ +36 1 3540232, info@dm-drogeriemarkt.hu. M-F 08:00-20:00, Sa 09:00-15:00. Cosmetics, Perfumes, glasses, medication, beauty care, baby care, health, household goods, online photo development. More units: V. Bajcsy Zs. út 59, V. Arany János utca 30, V. Sütő u. 2. (open also Su until 14:00), V. Károly körút 26, V. Királyi Pál utca 20. 
• 12 George's tea (Györgytea), V. Bank u. 4 ( : 'Arany János utca'), ☏ +36 46 390278, info@gyorgytea.hu. M-F 09.00–18.00, Sa 09.00–14.00. Herbal products from plants of Bükk Mount (a hill on NE Hungary) 

Eat

This page uses the following price ranges for a typical meal for one, including soft drink:
Budget	Under Ft2000
Mid-range	Ft2000-3500
Splurge	Above Ft3500

Cafes

Budget

• 1 Downtown Auguszt Confectionery (Belvárosi Auguszt Cukrászda), Kossuth L. u. 14-16 ( : 'Astoria'), ☏ +36 1 3376379, belvaros@auguszt.hu. M-F 9-19h, Sa 11-18. Also offer breakfast and lunch. Pastries, pies, salty pastries, seasonal products, cakes, wedding cakes, form-cakes, parfaits, ice-cream, lunch menu 

Mid-range

• 2 Anna Cafe (Anna Café), Váci utca 5 ( : Vörösmarty tér), ☏ +36 1 266-9080 (or 318-2016?). Daily 08.30–24.00. Decent place for coffee and cake with mid-range prices, much like Starbucks. Anna is a chain of at least two cafes there are more one at Fővám tér. The one near Vörösmarty tér is always full of visitors even in winter time - do check your bill for unjustified extra charges. Latte is bit smaller than usual; by default there's little milk. Good selection of leaf teas; served in kettles about 2 cups in size. Free wifi internet access. Complett breakfast €8-12, Cakes,Coffees €2.5-3,. 
• 3 Central Café (Centrál Kávéház), Károlyi Mihály utca 9 ( : Ferenciek tere), ☏ +36 1 266-2110, info@centralkavehaz.hu. 08:00-23:00. Centrál Kávéház is a very famous high-end coffeehouse. Founded in 1999. Breakfast €4-10, desserts, cakes, biscuits €2. 

Splurge

Inside Café Gerbeaud

• 4 Gerbeaud Café-confectioneries (Gerbeaud Kávéház), Vörösmarty tér 7 ( : Vörösmarty tér), ☏ +36 1 429-9000, gerbeaud@gerbeaud.hu. 09:00-21:00. Budapest's most famous cafe, an incredibly ornate Rococo confection dating to 1858 and lavishly restored in 1997. It's also priced to match, but still reasonable value as the pastries, cakes, desserts and ice cream remain excellent. Hot chocolate is well worth a try. Cake slices: €6.5, breakfast €7-10. 
• 5 Gerloczy Cafe (Gerlóczy Kávéház), Gerlóczy utca 1 ( : Ferenciek tere, Off of Vaci, away from the river), ☏ +36 1 235-0953, reservation@gerloczy.hu. Daily: 07:00-23:00. A small cafe, which is a nice place for coffee. During the warmer weather, have a meal at one of the outside tables.You can select your own two or three course menu from the daily specials; from appetizers, soups, main courses and desserts - available M-Th 12:00-15:00. menus. On Fridays the Chef presents his seafood specialty while on other days of the week and weekends the Chef prepares a variety of daily selections. Live guest musicians, harp and accordion in the night time. In the daytime: fine jazz music, old and new school Latin and Mediterranean themes, a hint of bossa nova and samba. Free WiFi access. menu €6 no drinks, 3 courses a la carte with drinks €20-24. 

Restaurants

• 6 Cafe Brunch Budapest - Bazilika, 1051 Budapet, Zrínyi u 8-10 (M2 Kossuth Lajos tér or M3 Arany János utca), ☏ +36-30-154-5660, bazilika@cafebrunchbudapest.com. 8AM-4PM. Part of the Cafe Brunch Budapest all-day breakfast & brunch restaurant chain with already 5 units in Budapest. Serves breakfast from 8:00 am every day. Large outside terrace overlooking St. Stephen's Basilica. Situated inside the Central European University (CEU). €10-15. (updated Jun 2023)
• 7 Cafe Brunch Budapest - Fővám tér, 1056 Budapest, Fővám tér 2-3 (Tram 2, 47, 49 or M4 Fővám tér), ☏ +36-30-014-6262, fovam@cafebrunchbudapest.com. 8AM-4PM. All-day breakfast & brunch restaurant located on Fővám square with an outside terrace overlooking the Liberty Bridge and the Great Market Hall. Part of the Cafe Brunch Budapest restaurant chain with already 5 units in Budapest. Serves international brunch favourites and Hungarian specialities. €10-15. (updated Jun 2023)

Budget

• 8 GOVINDA restaurants (Govinda Vegetáriánus Étterem), Vigyázó Ferenc utca 4 ( : Arany János utca, or bus 105, 210, 210B, or tram 2, 2B, 23 from the Chain Bridge exit into Pest, turn left into Apáczai u. then take the second right), ☏ +36 1 473-1310. M-F 11:00-21:00, Sa 12:00–21:00. Aaah, Hare Krisna, the saviour of vegetarians and budget-conscious travellers across Eastern Europe. Get your fill of tasty and very reasonably priced Indian and Italian dishes, ranging from soups to lasagna or sample a bit of everything with the set menu. The staff are helpful and some speak English. Highly recommended. - More units: Govinda Vega Corner restaurant in the 5th district (Pest), in Papnövelde Street, Govinda-Buda (2nd.district . Árpád fejedelem u. 33. and Lukács utca 1. corner) Govinda Eger, Govinda Debrecen Soups €1.5, lasagna €2, set menu €4.5. 
• 9 Hummus Bar (Hummus Bár), V. Október 6. utca 19 ( : Arany János utca, bus 15 to Hercegprímás utca stop), ☏ +36 1 354 0108. M-F 11:30-20:00, Sa Su 12:00-22:00. Best Falafel in Budapest, Vegan Friendly, English menu and staff. They also have a second location at V. Alkotmany Ut. 20 , a 3rd at V. ker. Kecskeméti utca 1., a 4th at VII. ker. Wesselényi-Síp utca sarok, a 5th at IX. ker. Tompa utca 30-34., a 6th at XIII. ker. Hollán Ernő utca 6. - Buda's unit: XI. ker. Bartók Béla út 6. falafel €3, hummus plates €3-6. 

Mid-range

• 10 Fatál restaurant (Fatál étterem), Váci utca 67 ( : Ferenciek tere or Kálvin tér), ☏ +36 1 2662607. Daily 12:00-24:00. Possibly the one place worth going to on Váci utca. Popular with tourists and locals alike, although advanced travellers report it's too touristy. Located in an atmospheric cellar, the foreboding name means "wooden platter" in Hungarian, and refers to the plates that the ridiculously huge portions are served on — an order of goose with dumplings, for example, will lead to an entire goose being deposited on your plate. Takeaway bags are provided on request if you can't finish it all. In solidly meat-eating Hungary, this is also one of the few places where you can sample vegetarian versions of dishes like goulash. Reservations are essential for lunch- or dinner-time visits. beef dish €12-34, specials in pots & pans €10-18, aperitifs €3-5, soup €3-5, main course €5-8. 
• 11 Iguana Bar & Grill (Iguana Mexikói Étterem), Zoltán utca 16 (between Parliament and the American Embassy, off of Szabadsag ter), ☏ +36 1 331 4352, Iguana2@t-online.hu. 11:30–01:00. Mexican food, pretty decent, but don't look for Southern California standards. Recommended that you reserve a table in advance. - Appetizer €2-6, burritos, enchiladas €7-8, soups €3-4, quesadillas €6-12, chilis €5-8, main courses €6-15, fajitas €8-12. 
• 12 Pampas Argentine Steakhouse Restaurant, V. Vámház körút 6. (next to the Central Market Hall. : Kálvin tér station, tram: 47, 48, 49), ☏ +36 1 4111750, info@steak.hu. Daily 12:00-02:00. wines are also from Chile, Argentina and France – at reasonable prices. Steaks come in 200g, 320g and 480g portion. A paradise for beef meat lovers. 

Splurge

You will find many cafes and mid-range to high-end gastronomic establishments around Deak ter.

• 13 Le Bourbon Restaurant, 1051, Erzsébet tér 9-10. ( : Deák Ferenc tér), ☏ +36 1 429-5770. Daily 12:00–22:30. French Cuisine. A restaurant is within the luxury hotel Le Meridien. Sunday brunches (12:00–15:00) 
• The Gresham Palace: Part of the amazing art nouveau hotel, reputed to be the most luxurious of the city - see Sleep:Splurge section for details.
• 14 Képiró, V. Képiró utca 3 ( : Kálvin tér), ☏ +36 1 266-0430. M-F 12:00-15:00, 18:00-00:00, Sa 18:00-00:00. Very modern Hungarian haute cuisine with some exotic influences. Excellent wine list, exclusively with Hungarian wines. The staff are very helpful, friendly and speak excellent English. Be aware that if asked for advice, they will unashamedly recommend their most expensive. Highly recommended, the food is delicious. 
• 15 Taverna Pomo d’Oro, Arany János utca 9. ( : Deák Ferenc tér station, tram: 2, 2B, 23, bus 105), ☏ +36 1 312-1405, info@pomodorobudapest.com. M–F 12:00-00:00, Sa Su 16:00–23:00. An Italian restaurant and wine bar. Nice selection of Italian and Hungarian wines. Delicious coffee 
• 16 Salaam Bombay, V. Mérleg utca 6 ( : Deák Ferenc tér station, tram: 2, 2B, 23, bus 105, 210, 210B), ☏ +36 1 4111252. Daily 12:00-15:00 and 18:00-23:00. Indian restaurant. Various vegetarian plates Meals Ft3500. 
• 17 Momotaro Ramen, 6th dist, Széchenyi utca 16 ( : Kossuth Lajos tér station, tram: 2, 2B, 23 or bus 15), ☏ +36 1 2693802. Daily 11:00–22:00. Chinese restaurant, also Japanese dishes here meals Ft3000. 

Drink

Busy at daytime, the V. District is also very much alive at nighttime.

There are dozens of romkocsma (literally translated: ruin-pubs) in city centre. These inhabit ruined courts of old houses, therefore they are hard to be found. Ask locals for hints and go for the unique post-socialist atmosphere!

Teahouses

• 1 Sirius Teahouse, Brody Sandor utca 13, Budapest 1088 (this teahouse is well hidden, 8t has a tiny door and is really tricky to find), ☏ +36 12661708. 12:00-22:00. This hidden teahouse in Pest is the perfect place to spend a relaxed afternoon. This place is fun and charming and they have a geat selection of tea. Its Alice in Wonderland theme is very interesting to look at and make little nooks so you can feel cosy. 
• 2 Teaház a Vörös Oroszlánhoz (Red Lion), 1061 Budapest, Jókai tér 8., ☏ +36 1 269 0579. 10:00-22:00. This teahouse has a top quality selection of teas, an oxygen bar, little nooks, a teashop and is just an oasis of peace. 

Bars, Pubs

• 3 Action Bar, Magyar utca 42 ( : Astoria, : Kálvin tér), ☏ +36 1 266 9148. One of Budapest's gay bars. Located in basement bar. Shows Friday nights. Not easy to find: There is a separate door to the cellar with an A on the door. You'll get a consumption card after you've entered the place. Pay at the bar before you leave. 
• 4 Beckett's Irish Pub, Bajcsy Zsilinszky út 72 ( : Nyugati pályaudvar), ☏ +36 1 311-1035. 12:00 to 01:00 weekdays, to 02:00 weekends; closed on Sundays. Claims to be Budapest's only authentic Irish bar and restaurant. This place is renowned for its pricey but potent drinks. 
• 5 Fat Mo's Music Pub, Nyári Pál u. 11 ( : Ferenciek tere). Apparently has live music most nights of the week. 
• 6 Fregatt Pub, V. Molnár u. 26 ( : 'Fővám tér' or : 'Kálvin tér'), ☏ +36 1 318-9997. A British-style pub that's popular with foreigners. The interior is styled after a frigate. 
• 7 For Sale Pub, V. Vámház körút 2 ( : Fővám tér). A country-style pub located at the bridgehead on Szabadság Bridge. Though small, it has two floors. They serve good food and many kinds of beers and have live music. Shelled peanuts come free with the beer and you can have fun throwing them around; as litering the place is officially allowed. This, over 10 year old pub, has bills, currencies, business cards, etc., of their visitors ornamenting their walls; and don't miss to stick yours while you are there! Staff is unfriendly. 

Wine tasting

• 8 Wine tasting on boat, V. Zrínyi street 5, ☏ +36 1 3171377, hunkonc@ticket.info.hu. 17:00-18:00. If you would like taste some Hungarian wine and enjoy the panorama of the city, choose Wine & Cruise. 

Sleep

Budget

• 1 Ace Hostel, Vaci utca 46 (100 m S of Kossuth Lajos ut), ☏ +36 20 478 1423, fivestars@freemail.hu. Check-in: 11.30-22.00, check-out: 10.00. One-star. Private rooms, one corner from the walking street and second block from Danube. Small hostel and apartments surrounded by pubs and restaurants. No luggage storage! single from Ft10,858. (updated Mar 2018)
• 2 Boomerang Hostel, Bank utca 7, Bell: 11 (by Arany János metro), ☏ +36 30 479 2971. Prime quality services, moderate prices. The manager is very helpful with giving information about points of interest. May-Aug: dorm 4 bed €15, triple €55, double €45. (updated Mar 2018)
• 3 Green Bridge Hostel, V. Molnar u. 22-24 (200 m N of Fővám tér metro), ☏ +36 1 266 6922, greenbridge@freemail.hu. Cheap dorms in the winter, no bunk beds, unlimited free tea and coffee. (updated Mar 2018)
• 4 Jazzy Vibes Parliament Hostel (formerly Origohostel), Nador utca 34 (near Kossuth tér metro), ☏ +36 20 950 1235. Cosy, clean 2-star accommodation for up to 14 persons Single €34, double €40, triple €48/56, dorm €20. (updated Mar 2018)

Mid-range

The glazed bridge between the two parts of the Mercure Korona hotel

• 5 Danubius Hotel Astoria, Kossuth Lajos ut 19 (next to Astoria metro), ☏ +36 1 889 6000. Central 4-star hotel. €70. (updated Mar 2018)
• 6 Budapest Museum Central, V. Muzeum korut 39. II. floor / 5 apt., Door-Bell code: 10. (m2 Astoria Metro station, m3 Kalvin Ter metro), ☏ +36 1 266 7868, fax: +36 1 700 4606. 3-star, all rooms with private bathroom. Some rooms with jacuzzi. Minimum 2 nights, single €49, double €59 per night. (updated Mar 2018)
• 7 Leo Boutique Hotel (Leo Panzió), Kossuth Lajos u. 2/A. (Next to Ferenciek tere metro), ☏ +36 1 266 9041, fax: +36 1 266 9042, leo@leopanzio.hu. Small modern three-star hotel. It has air conditioning, essential in summer. Enjoy the ancient and ornate lift. Rooms €76/87. (updated Mar 2018)
• 8 Mercure Budapest City Centre, Vaci utca 20 (Central old town. Park at Petofi Sandor ut 14.), ☏ +36 1 485 3100. Charming neighbourhood and interiors. Some rooms & fittings a bit wornː renovation is under way in spring 2018 and there may be some disturbance while this goes on. (updated Mar 2018)
• 9 Mercure Budapest Korona, Kecskemeti utca 14 (M3 and M4 Kalvin ter), ☏ +36 1 486 8800. 4-star on the edge of District V, but good transport and far more modern and comfortable than the other Mercure, even featuring a swimming pool. It consists of two buildings, linked by a glazed bridge over Kecskemeti utca. (updated Mar 2018)

The Four Seasons Gresham Palace, looking onto the Chain Bridge

Splurge

• 10 Bohem Art Hotel, Molnár utca 35 (250 m S of Elisabeth bridge), ☏ +36 1 327 9020, bohem@bohemarthotel.hu. 4-star in S downtown. dbl €112-135, suites from €200. (updated Mar 2018)
• 11 Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace, Széchenyi István tér, 5 (Central, facing Chain Bridge.), ☏ +36 1 268 6000, fax: +36 1 268 5000. 5 star in grand Art Nouveau style. looking onto Chain Bridge, the Danube and Castle Hill. With excellent restaurant and cafe. Double €345-555, suites €345-4600. (updated Mar 2018)
• 12 InterContinental Budapest, Apaczai Csere Janos 12 (just S of Chain bridge), ☏ +36 1 327 6333. 5-star with 400 rooms in 1980s cereal-box. Riverfront rooms have big windows looking over the Danube and Buda. The rooms are reasonably-sized, but tend to be cluttered with oversize furniture and the bathrooms are smallish, so it is worth upgrading not only for the view. Top-level rooms come with access to the hotel's "Club Intercontinental" lounge. There is a gym, spa and a restaurant with a Danube-facing terrace in the hotel. (updated Mar 2018)
• 13 Sofitel Budapest Chain Bridge, Széchenyi tér 2, ☏ +36 1 266 1234. 5 star, best rooms have a view over the Danube. The less expensive, however, face the poky alley at the back of the hotel. (updated Mar 2018)
• 14 Ritz-Carlton (formerly Le Meridien), Erzsebet Ter 9-10 (Downtown next to Deák Ferenc tér metro), ☏ +36 1 429 5500. 5 star overlooking the wide and green Erzsebet Ter, with over 200 plush rooms. With restaurant, gym, swimming pool and jacuzzi. (updated Mar 2018)
• 15 Budapest Marriott Hotel, Apaczai Csere Janos 4, ☏ +36 1 486 5000. 5-star in ugly 1960 slab, great views over Danube. (updated Mar 2018)
• 16 Kempinski Hotel Corvinus Budapest, Erzsébet tér 7-8, ☏ +36 1 429 3777. 5-star with a host of dining and bar options, a luxury spa and large tasteful rooms. (updated Mar 2018)

Stay healthy

• 6 Downtown medical service (Belvárosi Orvosi Centrum Kft.), lépcsőház 2. emelet, Ferenciek tere 7, ☏ +36 30 870 7427. 24/7. The Downtown 24-hour ambulatory and medical duty 
• 7 Fővám Square Pharmacy (Fővám téri Gyógyszertár), V. Fővám tér 4. (M4 1Fővám tér'), ☏ +36 1 2699525, fax: +36 1 2699524, fovampatika@fovampatika.t-online.hu. M-Sa 08.00–20.00, Su 08.00–16.00, After opening hours: permanent, continuous duty. 

Stay safe

• 8 Fifth District Police Station (V. kerületi Rendőrkapitányság), V. Szalay u. 11-13 (Bus 15, 105 to stop 'Markó utca'), ☏ +36 1 3731000, +36 20 9000-107 (Police SMS line for hearing impaired), 107 (Emergency call), 112 (Emergency call), 05rk@budapest.police.hu. 24/7. 

Connect

Post offices

• 9 Post Office (Budapest #5 Posta), V. Bajcsy-Zsilinszky út 16 (M1 'Bajcsy-Zsilinszky út'), ☏ +36 1-2664391, +36 1-3188337, ugyfelszolgalat@posta.hu. M-F 08:00-20:00. 
• #51 Posta, Dorottya utca 9, ☏ +36 1-3186441, +36 1 3186479. M-F 08:00-16:00. 
• #56 Posta, Fővám tér 5, ☏ +36 1 3182751. M-F 10:00-18:00. (updated May 2019)
• 10 Post Office (Budapest #502 Posta), Szalay utca 10-14 (Bus 15, 115 to stop 'Markó utca'), ☏ +36 1 2655096, fax: +36 1-3113212, ugyfelszolgalat@posta.hu. M-F 08:00-15:30. 
• 11 Post Office (Budapest 53 Posta), Múzeum körút 31-33. ( 'Astoria' or 'Kálvin tér'), ☏ +36 1 2655119, fax: +36 1-3189906, ugyfelszolgalat@posta.hu. M 09:00-19:00, Tu-Th 09:00-17:00, F 09:00-15:00.