Things to do in Budakeszi

Famed for its art nouveau design, the Gellért Thermal Baths and Swimming Pool has been an important fixture for locals and visitors since it was constructed at the beginning of the 20th century. These baths use the thermal springs from Gellért Hill to fill the pools in its majestic rooms. Spend a day taking advantage of the treatment options in this tranquil spa.

Parliament Building (Országház) is the third-largest parliament in the world, and was built as part of the country's Millennial commemorations in 1896. It stretches a massive 268 metres in length, and contains 691 rooms. The direct translation of its name from Hungarian means “House of the Nation”.

Széchenyi Thermal Bath is among the largest thermal spring spas in Europe. Its natural hot water is used for medicinal purposes to aid degenerative joint illnesses and inflammations. Admire the neo-Baroque style of the buildings and the pools that date back to the turn of the 20th century.

St. Stephen’s Basilica is a neoclassical church with an imposing dome and elegant turrets. With a height of 315 feet (96 meters), it is the tallest building in the city and among the largest churches in the country. Admire the opulence of this majestic church that features stunning stained-glass windows and works of art.

Buda Castle is a significant part of the city’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a much-loved sight for Budapest’s many visitors. The first castle on this site was built during the 13th century to protect against invasion by the Mongols. Over the years, a number of different structures have been built and destroyed by attackers. Thankfully, the second half of the 20th century saw the castle rebuilt and restored to its former glory.

The Hungarian State Opera House (Magyar Állami Operaház) has given a home to the long and rich operatic tradition of this country, stretching back into the 18th century, since its construction in 1884. The Hungarian State Opera and Hungarian State Ballet both have their permanent residence here, meaning there are year-round performances of the finest quality. All of these take place in surroundings of the utmost beauty, with high-quality art and regal interiors the order of the day throughout this beautiful building. The architect Miklós Ybl created the design for the building, influenced by the splendour of Vienna Opera House.

The Széchenyi Chain Bridge is the oldest bridge connecting the two sides of Budapest across the River Danube. Opened in 1849, it was considered a triumph of engineering and played a huge role in the growth of the city. Admire the elegant classicist design of this cast iron suspension bridge that has become an icon of Budapest.