Photo by: CAPTAIN RAJU, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
Kossuth Lajos Square in Budapest, a pedestrian plaza on the Danube bank framed by the Hungarian Parliament and historic buildings.”
District V: Belváros-Lipótváros – A Stroll to and Through Budapest City Centre
District V, also known as Belváros-Lipótváros or the Budapest city centre, is the beating heart of Budapest. This central area is where you’ll find some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, bustling shopping streets, historic squares, and vibrant cafés. Budapest is situated along the Danube River, with Pest side hosting this vibrant downtown Budapest district that serves as the city’s main shopping center. Whether it’s your first visit or your hundredth, the charm of Budapest city centre never fades. Join us on a walking tour through this central Budapest district, where history, culture, and modern life converge in the most captivating ways.
Walking from Buda to District V (Central Budapest)
1. Start at Kossuth Lajos Square and the Hungarian Parliament Building
Why Start Here: Begin your walk at Kossuth Lajos tér, home to the magnificent Hungarian Parliament Building, one of Budapest city’s most recognizable landmarks. This neo-Gothic masterpiece is not only the seat of Hungary’s National Assembly but also a symbol of the nation’s history and identity, representing one of the most significant attractions in the central area.
What to See: • Hungarian Parliament Building: Admire the intricate details of the Parliament Building’s façade, with its pointed spires, ornate carvings, and grand dome. If you have time, consider joining a guided tour to see the stunning interior, including the Dome Hall, where the Hungarian Crown Jewels are displayed. • Kossuth Lajos Square: Explore the surrounding square, which is filled with statues, monuments, and well-maintained gardens. Don’t miss the changing of the guard ceremony at the Parliament, a solemn and impressive display of Hungarian tradition.
2. Walk Along the Danube Promenade
Scenic Riverside Stroll: From Kossuth Lajos Square, head towards the Danube Promenade, a picturesque walkway that runs along the riverbank. The walk along the bank of the river danube offers some of the best views of the Buda side of the city, including the majestic Buda Castle perched on Castle Hill and the iconic Chain Bridge. The tram lines running nearby make this area easily accessible for visitors exploring Budapest city.
What to See: • Shoes on the Danube Bank: As you walk along the promenade, you’ll come across the poignant Shoes on the Danube Bank memorial, a tribute to the Jewish victims who were tragically shot into the river during World War II. The memorial consists of iron shoes left on the riverbank, symbolizing those who lost their lives. • Views of Buda: Take in the stunning views of the Buda side, especially at sunset when the buildings are bathed in a warm glow. The Chain Bridge, with its stone lions and suspension cables, is particularly photogenic from this vantage point.
3. Explore St. Stephen’s Basilica
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A Sacred Landmark: After your riverside stroll, make your way to St. Stephen’s Basilica, one of the most important religious buildings in Hungary and a key attraction in Budapest city centre. Named after the first King of Hungary, St. Stephen’s Basilica is a magnificent example of neoclassical architecture and is home to Hungary’s most revered relic, the Holy Right Hand of St. Stephen.
What to Explore: • The Interior: Step inside to marvel at the grand interior, adorned with marble, gold leaf, and intricate mosaics. The dome’s frescoes, depicting scenes from the life of St. Stephen, are particularly impressive. • Panoramic Views: For a small fee, you can climb to the top of the basilica’s dome, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Budapest city’s cityscape. The effort is well worth it for the breathtaking views of the Danube and beyond.
4. Wander Through Váci Utca – Váci Street
Budapest’s Premier Shopping Street: From St. Stephen’s Basilica, head towards Váci utca, Budapest city’s most famous shopping street. Váci utca is a lively pedestrian avenue lined with shops and restaurants, making it the perfect place to experience the city’s vibrant commercial life. This pedestrian friendly thoroughfare connects seamlessly with Vörösmarty Square, another major hub in downtown Budapest.
What to See: • Shopping and Souvenirs: Whether you’re looking for high-end fashion, local handicrafts, or unique souvenirs, Váci utca has something for everyone. The nearby Fashion Street offers upscale boutiques, while Vörösmarty square hosts elegant shops and restaurants. Be sure to explore the smaller side streets and hidden courtyards, where you might find some hidden gems and antique shops. • Café Culture: Take a break at one of the many cafés along Váci utca. The famous Gerbeaud café at Vörösmarty square is particularly renowned for its traditional Hungarian dishes and sweet treats. Enjoy a cup of coffee while people-watching and soaking in the bustling atmosphere of this central area.
5. Pause at Vörösmarty Square
6. Visit the Great Market Hall
A Feast for the Senses: At the southern end of Váci utca, you’ll find the Central Market Hall, Budapest city’s largest and oldest indoor market. This iconic building, dating from the late 19th century, is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in Hungarian cuisine and local products.
What to Explore: • Food Stalls: Wander through the market’s ground floor, where vendors sell fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and an array of traditional Hungarian dishes like paprikash, paprika, salami, and Tokaji wine. Don’t forget to sample some lángos, a popular Hungarian street food. • Handicrafts and Souvenirs: The upper floor of the market is filled with stalls selling traditional Hungarian crafts, including embroidered linens, pottery, and handmade jewelry. It’s a great place to pick up authentic souvenars representing the rich cultural heritage found across Budapest.
7. Stroll Through Liberty Square – Budapest City Center
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A Blend of History and Modernity: After exploring the Central Market Hall, make your way to Liberty Square (tér), one of the most significant and beautiful squares in Budapest city centre. This square is a testament to Hungary’s complex history, including the era of the communist regime, with monuments and memorials that reflect both its struggles and triumphs.
What to See: • Memorials and Monuments: Liberty tér is home to several important memorials, including the controversial Monument to the German Occupation and the Soviet War Memorial. The square also features statues of Ronald Reagan and other notable figures, creating a fascinating historical narrative in this central area. • Relaxing in the Park: The square’s park is a lovely place to relax, with its well-maintained lawns, fountains, and benches. It’s a peaceful spot to take a break and reflect on the day’s exploration of Budapest city.
8. End Your Walk at the Hungarian Academy of Sciences
FAQ – Budapest City Center – District V
What is considered the city center of Budapest?
The city center of Budapest is District V, Belváros–Lipótváros, located on the Pest side of the Danube. It includes Parliament, St. Stephen’s Basilica, Váci Street, Liberty Square, and many of the city’s most important cultural and commercial landmarks.
Where is the main area in Budapest?
The main area in Budapest is around District V, stretching from the Danube Promenade to Andrássy Avenue. This is where you’ll find many of the top attractions, shops, restaurants, and the famous squares that define central Budapest.
What is the central street in Budapest?
The most central street in Budapest is Váci utca, a pedestrian shopping street that runs through District V from Vörösmarty Square to the Great Market Hall.
What to do in Budapest city center?
In Budapest’s city center you can visit St. Stephen’s Basilica, walk along the Danube Promenade, shop on Váci Street, relax at Vörösmarty Square, explore the Great Market Hall, and enjoy cafés like Gerbeaud. It’s the perfect area for a walking tour.
What is the main square in Budapest called?
The most central square in Budapest is Vörösmarty Square (Vörösmarty tér), known for its statue of Mihály Vörösmarty, historic cafés, and seasonal markets like the famous Budapest Christmas Market.
What is the famous walking street in Budapest?
The famous walking street in Budapest is Váci utca, a lively pedestrian street filled with shops, cafés, and restaurants, connecting Vörösmarty Square with the Great Market Hall.