The Hungarian Parliament Building stands on the Pest bank of the Danube at Kossuth Lajos Square. Its Neo-Gothic façade, pointed towers and central dome are striking from the riverfront, while the illuminated building is especially photogenic after dark. You can admire the exterior from the square or across the river, or book a guided tour to see grand staircases, decorated halls and the Holy Crown of Hungary. The interior is accessible only on a tour, so arrange tickets ahead if you want to go inside.
The building on the Danube
The Hungarian Parliament Building, or Országház, is on the Pest side of Budapest at Kossuth Lajos Square. It is the seat of Hungary’s National Assembly and one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. Its long riverside façade is marked by pointed towers, rows of statues and a large central dome.
Architect Imre Steindl designed the building in the Gothic Revival style, with Renaissance and Baroque elements. Construction began in 1885 and was completed in 1904. The design was partly inspired by London’s Palace of Westminster. The building’s scale and symmetry are easiest to take in from across the river, while a walk around the square brings the carved details closer.
What to see inside
Interior visits take place on guided tours. The route includes grand staircases, ornate halls and the Dome Hall, where the Holy Crown of Hungary is displayed under guard. The Golden Staircase and the Grand Staircase are among the notable interior spaces; visitors also pass through Loge Hall and Congress Hall, once used by the House of Lords.
The interiors combine elaborate decoration with the building’s continuing role as a working parliament. Tours follow a set route, with a guide accompanying the group and audio information available. Access is limited to the tour areas, not the entire building.
Planning an interior visit
Reserve a tour before you go, particularly during busy travel periods, since tickets can sell out. Arrive early to allow time for the security check. Parliamentary sittings can restrict tour availability, so check the official Parliament website when planning an interior visit.
If tickets do not fit your schedule, the exterior is still worth seeing. Kossuth Lajos Square gives you a close look at the façade, while the opposite bank of the Danube offers a broader view of the building. A river cruise provides another perspective from the water.
Seeing the Parliament after dark
The building can be admired in daylight and after dark, when its lights pick out details along the façade. For the illuminated view, head to the Buda side of the river. From there, the Parliament’s outline and central dome stand out across the water. Tram 2 runs along the Danube on the Pest side, and trams 4 and 6 also serve the area.
FAQ
Can you go inside the Hungarian Parliament Building?
Yes. Interior visits are by guided tour, which includes selected halls and the Holy Crown of Hungary. Book ahead because tickets can sell out.
How long does a Parliament tour take?
A guided tour takes about 50 minutes. Allow extra time to arrive for the security check.
Where is the best place to view the Parliament Building?
Kossuth Lajos Square offers a close view of the façade. For a wider view, go to the Buda side of the Danube or see the building from a river cruise.
When is the Parliament Building best to see?
After dark, its illuminated façade is a memorable sight from across the Danube. The building is also photogenic during the day.
