St. Stephen's Basilica: A Majestic Icon of Budapest
Explore the architectural grandeur and spiritual significance of St. Stephen's Basilica, a must-see landmark in Budapest.
St. Stephen's Basilica stands as a monumental testament to the artistic and spiritual heritage of Budapest. Completed in 1905, this grand basilica is named after Hungary's first king, St. Stephen, and is one of the largest churches in the country. Visitors are captivated by its stunning neoclassical architecture, crowned by a magnificent dome that reaches an impressive height of 96 meters. The basilica's exterior is adorned with ornate sculptures and intricate details that reflect the craftsmanship of the era, making it a captivating sight from all angles. Inside, the basilica is equally mesmerizing. The interior boasts lavish decorations, including stunning frescoes, marble altars, and gold accents that create an atmosphere of grandeur and reverence. A highlight for many visitors is the Holy Right Hand of St. Stephen, which is housed in an ornate reliquary and serves as a significant pilgrimage site for the faithful. The basilica also hosts classical music concerts and religious services, providing an opportunity to experience its acoustics and ambiance in a unique way. For those who are up for it, a climb to the dome offers breathtaking panoramic views of Budapest, allowing visitors to appreciate the beauty of the city from above. Whether you are interested in history, architecture, or spirituality, St. Stephen's Basilica is a must-visit location that embodies the essence of Budapest. Make sure to explore the surrounding area, which is filled with charming cafes and shops, making it a perfect spot to relax and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the capital.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more serene experience.
- Don't miss the opportunity to climb to the dome for a stunning view of Budapest.
- Check the schedule for classical music concerts, which are often held in the basilica.
- Dress modestly if you plan to attend a service or visit the interior of the basilica.
- Take time to explore the surrounding area, which is full of charming cafes and shops.
A brief summary to St. Stephen's Basilica
- Szent István tér 1, Budapest, District V., 1051, HU
- +3613110839
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5:45 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5:45 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5:45 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5:45 pm
- Friday 9 am-5:45 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5:45 pm
- Sunday 1 pm-5:45 pm
Getting There
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Walking
If you are already in the Inner City, the most straightforward way to reach St. Stephen's Basilica is by walking. From the iconic Váci Street (a famous shopping street), head towards the Danube River. Once you reach the river, turn left and walk along the promenade until you reach the Széchenyi Chain Bridge. Cross over the bridge to get to the Buda side, then turn right and follow the road until you come back to the Pest side. Head towards the Basilica, which is just a short walk from the bridge.
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Public Transport - Metro
You can take the M1 (Yellow Line) or M2 (Red Line) metro from any stop within Inner City. If you are near Deák Ferenc tér, transfer to M2 (Red Line) and take it to the 'Bajcsy-Zsilinszky út' stop. From there, it’s about a 10-minute walk. Exit the station and walk towards the Basilica, which is located at Szent István tér 1, 1051.
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Public Transport - Tram
Another option is to take Tram 2, which runs along the Danube. You can board the tram at any stop along the river. Get off at the 'Kossuth Lajos tér' stop. From there, head towards the Parliament building, then continue straight until you reach the Basilica. The walk is approximately 15 minutes.
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Public Transport - Bus
If you prefer to take a bus, you can catch bus number 105 which operates in the Inner City. Get off at the 'Szent István tér' stop, which is directly in front of the Basilica. Note that a single ticket for public transport costs 350 HUF (approx. 1 EUR) and can be purchased at ticket machines or kiosks.
Attractions Nearby to St. Stephen's Basilica
Landmarks nearby to St. Stephen's Basilica
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Polányi család emlékmű
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Palais Krausz
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Soviet War Memorial
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Stephen Széchenyi Square
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Ronald Reagan Statue
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Vörösmarty tér
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Budapest Walk of Fame
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Tokaj ArtWine Galéria és borbemutató terem
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Carl Lutz Memorial
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Báthory István emlékmű
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John von Neumann's birthplace
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Turkish Bank House
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Vigadó Concert Hall
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Heart on the wall
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Monument in memoriam of Red Terror's Victims