Chain Bridge (Széchenyi Lanchid)
Széchenyi Lánchíd, Budapest, HUN
It's no surprise that the Széchenyi Chain Bridge (Széchenyi Lanchid is a top Budapest attraction since this 19th-century landmark offers fantastic views of Castle Hill. You can walk across for waterfront views, pose for a snapshot with the Buda Castle in the background, and marvel at the bridge's stone towers while crossing the Danube.
Originally opened in 1849—and rebuilt following its destruction in World War II—the Chain Bridge was the first in Budapest, and today remains popular with visitors. Constructed in the wake of the 1848 Hungarian Revolution, the bridge serves as a celebrated symbol of Hungarian independence.
It's hard to miss this bridge on a Budapest tour. Sightseeing tours, hop-on hop-off bus tours, bike and Segway tours, and even tuk-tuk tours typically offer bridge views. Danube cruises are perhaps the most charming way to see the Chain Bridge by water. You can easily stroll to the bridge while exploring District V, walk from St. Stephen's Basilica, or take the scenic 2 tram to pair a stop at Budapest's top foodie attraction—the Central Market Hall.
- Art enthusiasts should admire the bridge's stone lions crafted by János Marschalkó in the mid-19th century.
- Don't forget your camera—the bridge affords great views of the Hungarian Parliament Building to the east and Castle Hill to the west.
- Travelers report that the bridge's walkway offers wheelchair access.
- The Chain Bridge is a great starting point for exploring Castle Hill.
Sightseeing tours are typically the most convenient way to visit the Chain Bridge, though independent travelers can take public transit. On the Pest side, you can easily take the M1, M2, and M3 metro lines to the Deák Ferenc tér stop. From Buda, take the 19 or 41 trams to the Clark Ádám tér stop.
Since the bridge doesn't close, there's really no bad time to visit. You can stop by in the evening to enjoy the bridge lit up at night—complete with views of the illuminated Buda Castle nestled into the hillside—or visit during the day to stroll across for views up and down the Danube, and a hike up Castle Hill.
Stroll across the Chain Bridge from Pest, and you'll find the Budapest Castle Hill Funicular, a 19th-century railway offering easy access to the charming Buda Castle complex. When you disembark on the hilltop, you can stroll to top attractions. Highlights include the Buda Castle and its museum, Matthias Church, and Fisherman's Bastion, offering panoramic views across Pest.
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