Hungarian officials wanted to create a grand celebration of the country’s Millennial in 1896 so they constructed the Parliament Building (Orszaghaz) using London’s Westminster Palace as inspiration. Hungarian architect, Imre Steindl, created plans for the impressive structure and built it in a prominent position along the Pest side of the Danube River. The site was selected on this flat central location as a symbol of the city’s new democratic government rather than the lofty hilltop castles of royalty.
The design is neo-Gothic with turrets and arches. Hungarian monarchs and military commanders are remembered in 90 statues along the outer walls.
Walk the length of the 880-foot (268-meter) building, which contains 691 rooms. It’s the third largest parliament in the world. Much of the interior includes Renaissance and Baroque elements, including 88 pounds (40 kilograms) of gold decoration. It was designed to house two chambers of parliament in separate wings, with a 315-foot (96-meter) tall domed center structure for joint sessions. This large hall has 16 statues of kings and rulers from Hungary, Transylvania and Hapsburg.
Visit the interior rooms during daytime hours when Parliament is not in session, or observe plenary sessions on Monday afternoons and Tuesday mornings (with a reservation). There is a fee to enter the building. Once inside, take the 50-minute tour, which is offered in English and several other languages. Purchase tickets in advance since same-day ticket sales are sometimes limited.
The Parliament Building is one of the most photographed sights of Budapest. During the day its red dome contrasts against blue skies. In the evening, brilliant white or multicolored lights shine along the facade and reflect in the waters of the Danube. Take your own photographs to capture the memory, or purchase postcards or prints from a souvenir shop.
To get to the Parliament Building, take the metro or tram to the station at Kossuth Lajos tér, or bus or trolley.
Parliament Building Tours and Activities
Plan a trip to see Parliament Building
TG Hotel Apartments Budapest
Reviewed on Sep. 14, 2024
Hotel Moments Budapest
Reviewed on Sep. 24, 2024
Tours & day trips
See all 550 activitiesOpens in new tabBudapest Danube River Sightseeing Night Cruise
Private & custom tours
See all 213 activitiesOpens in new tabZagreb - Budapest
History & culture
See all 388 activitiesOpens in new tabBudapest: Nighttime or Daytime Sightseeing Cruise
Adventure & outdoor
See all 53 activitiesOpens in new tabZagreb - Budapest
Attractions
See all 9 activitiesOpens in new tabEntrance to Szechenyi Spa in Budapest
Reviews of Parliament Building
5/5 - Excellent
By far, the most stunning building we have ever seen in any city in Europe
Popular places to visit
Lajos Kossuth Square
You can learn about the history of Budapest when you stop by Lajos Kossuth Square. Discover the area's entertainment choices and stunning cathedral.
Danube River
Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Danube River during your travels in Belgrade. Stroll along the riverfront or experience the area's live music.
Shoes on the Danube
Walk along the banks of the Danube River and see this moving memorial to the Jewish people who were murdered in this very spot during World War II.
Liberty Square
Soak up history and modern culture as you people-watch in Budapest’s vast square, filled with statues, monuments and recreation spaces.
Batthyany Square
You can find out about the history of Budapest with a stop at Batthyany Square. Visit the shops and stunning cathedral in this romantic area.
Statue of Ferenc Rakoczi II Hungary
You can find out about the history of Budapest with a visit to Statue of Ferenc Rakoczi II Hungary. Discover the fascinating museums and stunning cathedral in this family-friendly area.
Best Lodging Options Near Parliament Building
Check availability on hotels close to Parliament Building
- Vacations and getaways similar to Parliament Building
- Other Hotels near Parliament Building, Budapest City Centre
- Hotels near popular Budapest Attractions
- More Hotel Options in Parliament Building
- Expedia's Latest Trends
- Margaret Island
- Gellért Thermal Bath
- Buda Castle
- Széchenyi Thermal Bath
- St. Stephen's Basilica
- Szechenyi Chain Bridge
- Hungarian State Opera House
- Fisherman's Bastion
- Las Vegas Casino
- Hungarian National Museum
- Budapest Castle Hill Funicular
- Andrassy Avenue
- Hungexpo Budapest Fair Center
- Matthias Church
- Elisabeth Bridge
- Hotels near Margaret Island
- Hotels near Gellért Thermal Bath
- Hotels near Széchenyi Thermal Bath
- Hotels near St. Stephen's Basilica
- Hotels near Szechenyi Chain Bridge
- Hotels near Vaci Street
- Hotels near Fisherman's Bastion
- Hotels near Danube River
- Hotels near Ferenc Puskas Stadium
- Hotels near Las Vegas Casino
- Hotels near Hungexpo Budapest Fair Center