Hungarian Parliament

Planning Your Visit to the Parliament Building

The Parliament building, known in Hungarian as the Országház, was designed by architect Imre Steindl and completed in the early twentieth century after construction began in the 1880s. It is one of the largest buildings in Hungary and remains the seat of the National Assembly, which is worth keeping in mind when you plan a visit. Because it is a working legislative building, access to the interior is only possible on guided tours, and tour availability can change when parliamentary business or official events are taking place.

Booking and timing

Tours are popular, especially in summer and around holidays, so it is sensible to book ahead through the official visitor channels rather than hoping for a same-day slot. Tours run in several languages, including English, and include security screening on entry, so arrive with time to spare and travel light. Check the official website for current times, ticket categories and any temporary closures before you set out.

What to look out for

• The Holy Crown of Hungary, displayed beneath the central dome together with other coronation regalia and guarded at all times.
• The grand staircase and dome hall, rich with gilding, frescoes and stained glass.
• Kossuth Lajos tér outside, with memorials and a visitor centre beneath the square.

Getting there and photographing it

The building is easy to reach on the M2 metro line, which stops at Kossuth Lajos tér, and the riverside tram along the Pest embankment also passes close by. For the classic view of the full façade, cross to the Buda side of the Danube: Batthyány tér and the riverbank below Buda Castle offer wide views, and the building is floodlit after dark. A river cruise is another way to see it from the water.

If you are combining sightseeing with errands in District V, our local services and shop catalogue are a short walk away, and you can browse more nearby landmarks in our Places section.