Discover the Serenity of Margaret Island
Explore the serene beauty of Margaret Island in Budapest, a tranquil oasis featuring lush gardens, historic ruins, and recreational activities amidst the Danube River.
Margaret Island is a stunning green haven located in the middle of the Danube River, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling streets of Budapest. Spanning over 2.5 kilometers, it is adorned with beautiful parks, gardens, and walking paths, making it an ideal spot for leisurely strolls and family outings. The island is also home to a variety of attractions, including the charming Japanese Garden, the enchanting Rose Garden, and the historic ruins of the Dominican convent, which add a cultural richness to the natural beauty. For those interested in history, Margaret Island boasts several monuments and memorials, including the medieval Franciscan church ruins and the famous water tower, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. The island is not just about relaxation; it also hosts various recreational activities such as biking, jogging, and even open-air concerts during the summer months. The tranquil atmosphere, combined with lush greenery and the gentle sound of the Danube flowing nearby, creates a perfect setting for a peaceful day out. Moreover, visitors can enjoy the unique thermal baths and spa facilities available on the island, providing a perfect opportunity to unwind and rejuvenate. With its rich blend of nature, history, and culture, Margaret Island is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the serene side of Budapest.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for a quieter experience and enjoy the beauty of the sunrise over the Danube.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in one of the many gardens and relax in the peaceful surroundings.
- Don't miss the musical fountain show in the evening during summer months for a delightful experience.
- Consider renting a bike to explore the island more efficiently and see all its attractions.
A brief summary to Margaret Island
- Budapest, District XIII., HU
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car, head towards Budapest and follow signs for the city center. Once you're in Budapest, navigate to Szent István Park, which is located near the northern end of Margaret Island. You can park your car at the nearby parking facilities, such as the 'Szent István Park Parking' or 'Margaret Island Parking'. From there, walk across the pedestrian bridge to reach the island. Note that parking can incur costs ranging from 300-500 HUF per hour.
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Public Transportation - Metro
To reach Margaret Island via public transportation, take Metro Line 1 (the yellow line) to the 'Vörösmarty tér' station. From there, transfer to Tram Line 2 and get off at 'Margit híd, budai hídfő' stop. Walk across the Margaret Bridge (Margit híd) to the island entrance. Trams are generally very affordable, with a single ticket costing around 350 HUF.
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Public Transportation - Bus
Alternatively, you can take Bus 26 from various points in Budapest. Look for the nearest bus stop and board Bus 26 heading towards 'Rómaifürdő'. Get off at the 'Margit híd, budai hídfő' stop and walk across the bridge to the island. The bus fare is around 350 HUF for a single ticket.
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Bicycle
For those who enjoy cycling, you can rent a bike from one of the numerous bike rental stations in Budapest. Head towards Széchenyi Chain Bridge (Lánchíd) and cross it to reach the Buda side. Continue cycling along the riverside until you reach Margaret Bridge. There are bike paths leading directly to the island entrance. Be sure to check the bike rental costs, which typically range from 1000-3000 HUF per hour.
Attractions Nearby to Margaret Island
- Palatinus Strand Baths
- Margaret Island Mini Zoo
- Medieval Dominican Convent and Royal Mansion
- Saint Margaret of Árpád-házi
- Szt. Margit Sírja
- Margaret Island Water Tower
- Margaret Island Open-Air Stage
- Budapest Garden
- Saint Michael's Chapel
- Budapest Danube River Cruises
- Budapest Sign
- Portum Lines
- Amphitheatrum
- Margitsziget Musical Fountain
- Móló
Landmarks nearby to Margaret Island
- Húszezer áldozat, húszezer kő emlékhely
- Hungarian Museum of Commerce and Hospitality
- Mansfeld Péter Park
- Columbo Statue
- Ornament at the door
- Szovjet Kényszermunkatáborokban Elpuszt Honfitársaink Emlékére
- Hungarian Parliament Visitor Centre
- Danube and Buda panorama near Parliament
- Hungarian Parliament Building
- Kossuth Lajos Square
- National Flagpole
- II. Rakoczi Ferenc equestrian statue
- Mátyás-hegy
- Báthory István emlékmű
- John von Neumann's birthplace