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House of Parliament (Országház)

Kossuth Lajos tér 1-3, Budapest, HUN

The Hungarian House of Parliament (Országház) is one of the world’s most photogenic government buildings. Perched on the UNESCO World Heritage–listed banks of the Danube River, the mainly neo-Gothic structure features 691 rooms, a handful of which are open to the public—including the Domed Hall, where the Crown of St. Stephen is on display.

Nearly half a million people visit the Budapest Parliament (aka Hungarian Parliament) each year, making it one of the city’s most popular attractions. Visitors must join a guided tour to enter, though sometimes the building opens to the public for concerts. For a more comprehensive day in Budapest, combine a tour of Parliament with a Danube River cruise, city sightseeing tour, or Hungarian folklore performance.

  • Budapest Parliament is a must-see for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and first-time visitors.

  • All visitors must pass through security when entering the building. Large bags are not permitted.

  • Tours of the facilities last approximately 50 minutes.

  • Photography is allowed throughout the building except for in the Dome Hall.

  • There are restrooms in the visitor center.

  • Parliament is accessible to wheelchair users.

Budapest Parliament is centrally located on the banks of the Danube River, about a 10-minute walk from the Chain Bridge. To get there by public transportation, take the M2 (red) metro line, bus 15, or tram number 2.

While the visitor center and some rooms are open daily throughout the year, hours are restricted when the National Assembly meets for its plenary sitting, so be sure to check the schedule ahead of time.

Imre Steindl designed this striking edifice after winning a design competition in 1873. The eclectic building—with its neo-Gothic, medieval, and baroque styles—wasn’t fully completed until 1902. It took nearly 40 million bricks to construct, and the outside facade features 90 stone sculptures of figures from Hungarian history.

Yes, visiting the Budapest Parliament—also known as the Hungarian Parliament Building, or Országház—is worth it. Part of Budapest’s Banks of the Danube UNESCO World Heritage Site, the landmark is an architectural icon and one of the world's largest parliament buildings. Inside, visitors find artworks and the country’s crown jewels.

No, you cannot visit the Budapest Parliament, also known as the Hungarian Parliament Building, for free. Visitors should purchase tickets online in advance, and tickets vary in price. Typically, Hungarian residents pay the least, while visitors outside of the European Economic Area pay the most. Family packages are also offered.

The average tour of Budapest’s Parliament (also known as the Hungarian Parliament Building) lasts for around 45 or 50 minutes. To extend your experience, you can also combine your visit with a Budapest walking tour, a cruise along the Danube River, or other sightseeing outings.

The Budapest Parliament (Országház) is arguably Hungary’s best-known and most recognizable tourist attraction. It's also the third-largest parliament building in the world. Part of the Banks of the Danube UNESCO World Heritage Site, the landmark is known for its striking blend of different architectural styles, including neo-Gothic and neo-baroque.

The Hungarian Parliament Building is located on the Pest side of the Danube River. Budapest is a city of two halves. Its right bank, or Buda, is best known for its hilltop Buda Castle complex. Its left bank, or Pest, is more lively and residential and home to major landmarks.

Several locations offer ideal vantage points of the Hungarian Parliament Building all lit up after dark. On the Buda side, head to the Buda Castle area, and take photos from the Fisherman’s Bastion. Alternatively, hop on an evening river cruise, or take photos from the Széchenyi Chain Bridge.

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