Discover Budapest’s Hungarian Parliament Building, a Must-See Attraction for Tourists, Here’s What You Need to Know

Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is a city of interesting contrasts and a rich history. Budapest is one of Europe’s most beautiful cities and a favorite destination for tourists. Whether it’s the thermal baths, the bars in the ruins of the castle, or the scenic banks of the Danube, Budapest is a city of memorable and picturesque locations. Among the city’s unforgettable attractions is the Hungarian Parliament Building (Országház) which is one of the most stunning and recognizable buildings in Europe. This building, which was completed in the late 19th century, is a marvel of architecture and one of the masterpieces of the skyline. It is also the seat of Hungary’s National Assembly.

Budapest is considered one of the hidden jewels of Europe and as such the Hungarian Parliament Building is a significant building. It is a mark of national pride and one of the most splendid tourist attractions. It has steep pointed spires and a maroon dome which when viewed from the banks of the Danube makes for an unforgettable scene. It is no wonder it attracts tourists from every part of the globe.

A Symbol of Hungary’s Rich History and Culture
Built between 1885 and 1904, the Hungarian Parliament Building is one of the most significant and visually striking government buildings in the world. The design, crafted by Hungarian architect Imre Steindl, blends Gothic Revival and Renaissance Revival styles, giving it an almost fairy-tale-like quality. With its grandiose exterior, the Parliament Building stands as a testament to Hungary’s past, embodying the country’s aspirations and political ambitions at the turn of the 20th century.

The building’s location on the banks of the Danube River further amplifies its beauty, especially when viewed from across the water. As visitors approach from the river, they are met with the sight of the Parliament’s symmetrical, spire-topped towers and its massive, red-domed roof. This is a perfect spot for photographers, especially at sunrise or sunset when the changing light enhances the Parliament’s striking architecture.

Not Just a Government Building: A Premier Tourist Attraction
Unlike many national government buildings, which can be rather utilitarian and closed off from public interaction, the Hungarian Parliament Building offers both a functional political space and an engaging tourist experience. In fact, the building has consistently received praise for being an accessible and enjoyable attraction. Travel bloggers and tourists alike have lauded the Parliament Building, even ranking it as the best tourist attraction in the world in 2025, according to the Stasher blog.

One of the main factors contributing to its popularity is its impressive visitor rating. With an average Google rating of nearly five stars, the Hungarian Parliament Building is a crowd-pleaser, drawing both history enthusiasts and architectural admirers alike. While its exterior alone is enough to leave visitors in awe, the real experience comes from exploring the building’s magnificent interior.

Exploring the Interior: A Journey into Opulence
While the exterior of the Hungarian Parliament Building is a sight to behold, the interior is equally breathtaking. Once inside, visitors are immediately greeted by opulence and grandeur. The building is adorned with lavish gold details, intricate sculptures, and massive paintings that reflect the country’s history and artistic heritage.

The Parliament’s halls are designed with exquisite attention to detail. From the towering staircases lined with rich red carpeting to the elaborately designed ceilings, every corner of the building exudes luxury. One of the most impressive features inside is the Hungarian Holy Crown, housed in the Parliament’s central hall. This medieval crown has been associated with Hungary’s kings since the 11th century and is deeply symbolic of the country’s royal lineage. Historically, the crown was believed to possess mystical powers, and it was used during the coronation of many Hungarian monarchs.

The Parliament’s interior also boasts numerous other attractions, including the rich collection of statues and decorative elements that are spread across the building’s numerous chambers. Visitors can explore the halls, marvel at the artwork, and learn about Hungary’s political history while walking through the corridors where the country’s government debates and makes decisions.

Planning Your Visit: Tips for Tourists
For those planning to visit the Hungarian Parliament Building, it’s highly recommended to reserve tickets in advance, as tours often sell out, especially during peak tourist seasons. Tours depart from the building’s visitor center and offer a comprehensive look at both the interior and exterior of the building, including its history and function as the center of Hungary’s political life.

While the building is typically open for tourists, it is occasionally closed for official events, so it’s important to check ahead of time to avoid scheduling conflicts. The best way to experience the Parliament is to take a guided tour, which not only provides valuable historical context but also allows you to access areas that are otherwise closed to the public.

Perfect Views: The Best Vantage Points in Budapest
A trip to the Hungarian Parliament Building isn’t complete without experiencing its beauty from the other side of the Danube River. To get the best views of this magnificent building, visitors should head to Fisherman’s Bastion, located near the 900-year-old Matthias Church. From this elevated viewpoint, tourists can enjoy panoramic views of the Parliament Building, the river, and the surrounding cityscape.

At night, the Hungarian Parliament Building takes on an entirely new level of magic. Illuminated by golden lights, the building appears even more stunning as it reflects in the Danube. The golden glow of the Parliament at night is one of Budapest’s most photographed views and provides a fairy-tale-like atmosphere that’s hard to forget.

The Economic Impact of the Hungarian Parliament Building on Tourism
As one of Hungary’s most visited tourist attractions, the Hungarian Parliament Building plays a significant role in Budapest’s tourism economy. The building attracts millions of visitors each year, from history buffs to architecture lovers, contributing greatly to the local economy. The tourism industry around the Parliament area has blossomed, with surrounding attractions, restaurants, and shops catering to the influx of visitors.

The Parliament’s status as a top tourist destination helps boost local employment, from tour guides to service staff, and provides a substantial source of income for the city. Furthermore, its status as an iconic landmark contributes to Hungary’s global cultural reputation, drawing visitors not only from Europe but from all over the world.

A Must-See Attraction in Budapest

While in Budapest, you have to visit the Hungarian Parliament Building. It is an unforgettable experience, whether you are admiring the building’s majesty from the Danube River or touring the building’s magnificent interior. It combines history, architecture, and culture in such a way that the Parliament Building is a symbol of what Hungary was and is. When in Budapest, this is the most beautiful Parliament building in the world and… it is one of the most beautiful tourist attractions in the world. This visit is one to remember.

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