Best Places to Watch the August 20th Fireworks in Budapest
- Betti Tour Guide in Budapest
- Jul 19
- 4 min read
Updated: Aug 23
If you’re visiting Hungary in the summer, August 20th is a must-see spectacle. Known as St. Stephen’s Day, this national holiday celebrates the foundation of the Hungarian state and features one of the largest fireworks displays in Europe, right in the heart of Budapest.
Thousands line the Danube River to watch the sky light up over Parliament, Buda Castle, and the city’s iconic bridges. Wondering where the best views are? Whether you’re a local or a tourist, here are the top places to watch the August 20th fireworks in Budapest in 2025.
📌 Note: The 2025 official event program will likely be published 2–3 weeks before the holiday on the official website: szentistvannap.hu.
🏞️ Gellért Hill – Panoramic Classic
If you're after sweeping, cinematic views of the fireworks show, Gellért Hill is hard to beat. This elevated viewpoint overlooks the entire city, offering full visibility of the Danube, Parliament, Buda Castle, and multiple bridges where the fireworks are launched.
Be aware: the hike up is steep, and the hill gets crowded hours before the show. Bring water, snacks, and patience, and arrive early to secure a good spot.
🏰 Fisherman’s Bastion – Fairy-Tale Vantage Point
One of Budapest’s most iconic viewpoints, Fisherman’s Bastion provides a breathtaking view of the Danube and the Pest skyline. Its terraces and turrets make for a picture-perfect setting to watch the fireworks, especially with the Parliament building in full view.
Due to limited space, you’ll need to arrive very early—sometimes even before sunset—to claim a spot. It’s a magical location for photographers and romantics alike.
🏛️ Parliament Area & Pest Embankment – Iconic and Central
Watching the fireworks with the Hungarian Parliament illuminated in the background is one of the most memorable experiences you can have on August 20. Standing on the Pest side of the embankment, especially near Kossuth Square, offers direct views of the fireworks bursting above Parliament and the river.
This area is popular with both tourists and locals and is very likely to be crowded. Parts may also be cordoned off for security, so plan to arrive early and be flexible with your exact location.
🚋 Tram Line 2 & Vigadó tér – Accessible and Scenic
The Pest riverside promenade near Tram Line 2, especially by the Marriott Hotel and Vigadó tér, is one of the easiest and most scenic places to watch the fireworks. The view of the Buda side, Gellért Hill, and Castle District is wide open and beautiful.
The area is flat and easy to access, making it ideal for families, older visitors, or anyone wanting to avoid steep climbs. Just note that tram service is usually paused during the event, and nearby sidewalks will be busy.
🌄 Buda Hills and Parks – Relaxed and Panoramic
Looking for a quieter experience? Head to higher ground in Buda, such as Tabán Park, Normafa, or the side slopes of Gellért Hill. These locations offer excellent long-distance views of the city and fireworks, with a more peaceful, picnic-like atmosphere.
While you won’t hear the synchronized music or see every low-level firework, you’ll avoid the crowds and still enjoy a fantastic panoramic display.
🍸 Rooftop Bars – Stylish and Crowd-Free Viewing
For a more exclusive and elevated experience, watching the fireworks from one of Budapest’s rooftop bars is an excellent choice. These venues offer clear views, great cocktails, and a relaxed setting far above the crowds.
Top rooftop bars for August 20 fireworks viewing:
Leo Rooftop Bar – Near the Chain Bridge with prime views of the Danube and Parliament
High Note SkyBar – Above the Aria Hotel, with direct views over St. Stephen’s Basilica and Buda
White Raven Skybar & Lounge – In the Castle District, offering panoramic views from Buda
The Duchess – Elegant rooftop with great lines of sight over Pest
FIORE – FENNN at Kimpton – A chic, newer spot with expansive city views and upscale atmosphere
These places often require reservations well in advance, and minimum spends or cover charges may apply on August 20. But the comfort, cocktails, and exclusive views often make it worthwhile.
🎯 Final Tips for Watching the Fireworks in Budapest
Arrive early – Popular spots fill up fast, often 1–2 hours before the show.
Bring essentials – Water, snacks, power bank, and something to sit on.
Expect crowds – Especially along the river and bridges.
Use public transport – Roads and some tram/bus lines may be closed or rerouted.
Stay updated – Visit szentistvannap.hu for official event announcements, closures, and showtimes.
🎆 In Summary
Whether you're looking for hilltop views, riverside intensity, or a cocktail with a skyline backdrop, Budapest offers a fireworks experience for every style. August 20th is not only a national holiday—it's a city-wide celebration of light, history, and community. Choose your spot, get there early, and prepare to be amazed.
Video on what the fireworks look like from Pest side river bank: https://www.instagram.com/reel/C-FDqnSo0lZ/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MW52MTBwZzAwc3ZrZw==
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