St. Stephen’s Basilica (Szent István Bazilika)
Szent István tér 1, Budapest, HUN
With everything from holy relics to frescoes, the neoclassical St. Stephen’s Basilica (Szent István Bazilika) is a must for first-time visitors to Budapest. Marvel at the architecture, the clock towers, the stained glass windows—and the preserved hand of St. Stephen, the first king of Hungary.
Located in Budapest’s District V, St. Stephen’s Basilica is a grand cathedral and worship space that accommodates upward of 8,000 parishioners. Featuring a colonnaded entryway, the facade is adorned with carvings of the apostles. Go on your own or join a sightseeing tour, most of which stop by the popular attraction. And if you’re a music enthusiast, check out one of the basilica’s frequent organ recitals—many are free.
Tours of St. Stephen’s Basilica are given in English, but advance booking is required.
Admission is free, except for the panorama tower and treasury—discounts are offered with the Budapest Card.
St. Stephen’s Basilica is easy to get to by metro. Hop on the M3 line to Metro János utca, or the M1 line to Bajcsy-Zsilinszky út.
The basilica is open every day. Services happen on Sundays throughout the day, and on weekday mornings. For a traditional experience, attend the weekly great mass, held in Latin. For fewer crowds, go on a weekday.
Explore some of Budapest’s most picturesque streets on an afternoon stroll from St. Stephen’s Basilica to the Hungarian Parliament Building. Situated inside a public square, and facing the Danube River, this stately government structure is a stunning example of neo-Gothic architecture. English tours of the Budapest landmark are offered daily—book in advance.
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