Where To Go For Panoramic Views Of Budapest

With so many architecturally stunning buildings forming part of its skyline, Budapest is best viewed from above. Fortunately, the city offers plenty of opportunity to do just that. From popular viewing points to secret spots, we run through the best places to enjoy panoramic views over Budapest.

Gellért Hill and the Citadel

The 235 m high Gellért Hill is the location of the Citadel – a fortress built in 1854 – and a great place to enjoy stunning views over Budapest. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the hill is named after St Gerard who is said to have thrown himself to his death from the hill.

Gellért Hill, Budapest, Hungary

2. Bar

Bar, Cocktails

Located atop one of the tallest buildings on the historic Andrassy Avenue, this rooftop bar prides itself on its 360 degree views over Budapest. Open throughout summer, it’s a great place to watch the sunset with a drink in hand.

3. Elizabeth Lookout Tower

A little outside of central Budapest, this lookout tower at the top of János Hill is popular with locals. Set in the hills of Buda, visitors can either hike or take a chair lift to the peak. From here, it’s a short walk to the Elizabeth Lookout Tower, with Budapest stretching out into the distance. At 526 m (1725 ft) tall, János Hill is the highest point in Budapest making this the place for panoramic views of the city.

Elizabeth Lookout, Erzsébet kilátó út, Budapest, Hungary

Budapest from janos hill| © Prabhu Balakrishnan / Flickr cc

4. Matthias Church

Church, Mosque

After undergoing renovations, the bell tower of Matthias Church in Buda opened to the public in 2015. Visitors can climb the 197 stairs to the 46 metre (159 ft) high balcony in the tower to enjoy views over the Fisherman’s Bastion and across the Danube towards Pest.

Matthias Church, Szentháromság tér 2, Budapest, Hungary

Matthias Church | © Wei-Te Wong / Flickr cc

5. József-hegyi kilátó, Rózsadomb

Bridge, Building

Rozsadomb, in Budapest’s 2nd District, is a quiet, wealthy residential area located in the hills of Buda. In this peaceful neighbourhood stands one of the city’s lesser know viewpoints which offers views over the Danube, the Hungarian Parliament Building and the Chain Bridge. It’s a little out of the centre, but worth the trip for the fact that you’ll probably be the only ones there.

József-hegyi kilátó, Józsefhegyi u., Budapest, Hungary

Rózsadomb / Alex Mackintosh

6. Fisherman's Bastion

Historical Landmark, Building

With its location on top of Castle Hill, this viewing terrace affords great views over the Danube. At ground level, the Hungarian Parliament Building appears beautifully framed by stone arches or, for a truly panoramic view of the city, the lookout towers and balconies offer the perfect vantage point.

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