Exploring the Bálna: Budapest's Cultural Hub
Discover Bálna, Budapest’s iconic cultural center offering shopping, dining, and breathtaking Danube views in a unique architectural setting.
Bálna, located on the banks of the Danube, is a vibrant cultural center in Budapest that merges history with modernity. This unique venue features a variety of shops, restaurants, and exhibition spaces, making it a must-visit for tourists seeking an immersive experience in Hungarian culture.
A brief summary to Bálna
- Fővám tér 11-12, Budapest, District IX., 1093, HU
- +36304185805
- Visit website
- Monday 1 pm-6 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-8 pm
- Thursday 10 am-8 pm
- Friday 10 am-10 pm
- Saturday 10 am-10 pm
- Sunday 10 am-8 pm
Local tips
- Visit during the early evening for stunning sunset views over the Danube.
- Check the event calendar on their website for special exhibitions and performances.
- Try the local Hungarian dishes at one of the Bálna’s many restaurants for an authentic experience.
- Take advantage of the riverside promenade for a scenic walk before or after your visit.
- Public transport is easily accessible; consider taking the tram for a scenic ride along the river.
Getting There
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Walking
From the center of Vác, head towards the Váci River. Walk along the riverbank towards the south until you reach the Váci Fő tér. Continue straight until you reach the Váci train station. From there, take the train towards Budapest. The train ride takes about 40 minutes. Get off at the Fővám tér station in Budapest. Once you exit the station, you will see Bálna directly in front of you.
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Train
Make your way to the Váci train station, located in the center of Vác. Purchase a ticket to Budapest and board a train heading towards Budapest Nyugati or Budapest Keleti. The journey takes approximately 40 minutes. Once you arrive at Budapest, transfer to the Metro Line 4 at the Keleti Pályaudvar station. Take the Metro towards Kelenföldi Pályaudvar and get off at Fővám tér station. Bálna will be a short walk from the metro exit.
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Bus
From the main square in Vác, find the bus station located nearby. Look for a bus that goes to Budapest, with stops in the city center. Once you arrive in Budapest, you can either walk or take the tram to reach Fővám tér. If you choose to walk, head towards the Danube River and follow the path to Fővám tér. Bálna will be located at Fővám tér 11-12.
Discover more about Bálna
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Szabadság híd
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Historical City Wall Exhibition
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Gellért Hill Vista Point
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Károlyi Garden
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Ádám-palota
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Sculpture of the Boys of the Pál Street
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Kilátóterasz
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Páva u. 5
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Karl Xll King of Sweden
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Ferenciek tere
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Gellért-hegy Jubileumi park
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Budapest Inner-City Mother Church of Our Lady of the Assumption
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Citadella
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Bud Spencer Statue
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Erzsébet Bridge
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Unmissable attractions to see
New Budapest Gallery
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Alagút a központi vásárcsarnokba
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Central Market Hall
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Fővám tér market
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Fővám Square
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Veres Pálné emléktábla
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Liberty Bridge
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1956-os emlékmű
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Szent Gellért tér
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MONYO Tap House
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The Starting Point of 1956 Revolution
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Kálvin Square Reformed Church
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Kálvin tér
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Petőfi Bridge
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Mesterséges cseppkövek a híd alatt
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Essential places to dine
Hoppácska
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Fakanál Étterem
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Paprika Jancsi Restaurant
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Rostélyos Étterem (Zora Lamental Kft.)
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Costes Restaurant
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Pesti KULACS Magyar Étterem
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Szeged Restaurant
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Bartók - Reggel, Délben, Este
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Rustico
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Gellért Garden Étterem & Kávézó
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Fatal Restaurant
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Szegedi Halászcsárda
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Flour Style Wok Bar
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Verne Restaurant & Cafe
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Trattoria Venezia
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Marty's Souvenir Pavilon - Spirit of Budapest
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BUDAPEST SOUVENIR SHOP
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Hungarian Souvenir
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NINI BOUTIQUE
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Boutique souvenir
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Vintage Shop Práter
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Best Souvenir Shop
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Figaro Magic Store
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Typo Showroom
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Manufactory shop
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MARGOT Budapest
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Impact Shop Budapest: local, social, natural gourmet, design, fashion & gifts
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BestStuff ajándékbolt - Astoria
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Tasting Table Budapest Shop
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Corvin Plaza Shopping Mall
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
For Sale Pub
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Púder Bárszínház
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Palack Wine Bar
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Why not cafe and bar
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Müller Penthouse
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HaBár
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Mélypont Presszó
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GoodSpirit Whisky & Cocktail Bar
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Szatyor Bár
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Élesztő
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Red Ruin
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Icebar Budapest
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Ibolya Espresso
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