Official Ticket Guide to Budapest’s Top Attractions: Basilica, Parliament, Baths, Synagogue & More
- Betti Tour Guide in Budapest
- Sep 17
- 4 min read
Updated: Oct 12
Budapest is one of Europe’s most enchanting capitals, with a blend of history, architecture, and wellness culture that makes it a dream destination. From grand churches and historic synagogues to world-famous thermal baths and the majestic Hungarian Parliament, there’s so much to see. But here’s the catch: don’t fall for overpriced third-party ticket sellers and scams.
This guide gives you the background of each landmark, along with where to buy official tickets, what’s included, and the latest prices — all straight from the source. Bookmark it before your trip to save time, money, and headaches.
St. Stephen’s Basilica (Szent István Bazilika)
Why visit: St. Stephen’s Basilica is the largest church in Budapest, named after Hungary’s first king and saint, Stephen I. Completed in 1905, the basilica is a symbol of national pride and a masterpiece of neo-classical architecture. Its interior is richly decorated with mosaics and paintings, and it houses Hungary’s most sacred relic — the right hand of St. Stephen.
Visitors can also climb (or take the elevator) up to the Panorama Terrace, which offers one of the best 360° views of the city.
Official website: bazilikabudapest.hu
Tickets: Church entry, Treasury, and Panorama Terrace.
Prices: Vary depending on combination — check the official ticket page.
Matthias Church (Mátyás-templom)
Why visit:Located in Buda Castle District, Matthias Church dates back over 700 years and is one of the most iconic buildings in Hungary. Its colorful tiled roof and Gothic architecture make it a jewel of the city. The church has hosted royal weddings and coronations, including that of Franz Joseph I and Empress Elisabeth (Sisi).
Inside, you’ll find breathtaking frescoes and stained glass, while the Tower tour offers spectacular views over the Danube and Parliament.
Official website: matyas-templom.hu
Tickets: Church entry, Tower access (separate).
Prices: Tower ticket ~3,700 HUF (adult), ~3,100 HUF (student/senior).
Hungarian Parliament (Országház)
Why visit:The Hungarian Parliament is Budapest’s most recognizable landmark — and one of the largest parliaments in the world. Built between 1885–1904 in a stunning Neo-Gothic style, it stands proudly on the banks of the Danube. The building has nearly 700 rooms, a dazzling central dome, and treasures such as the Hungarian Crown Jewels.
Guided tours take you through its majestic halls, including the Grand Staircase, Dome Hall, and Assembly Hall.
Official website: parlament.hu
Tickets: Available via jegymester.hu/parlament.
Prices (2025):
Adults (EEA citizens): 6,500 HUF
Students (EEA citizens, 6-24): 3,250 HUF
Adults (non-EEA): 13,000 HUF
Students (non-EEA, 6-24): 6,500 HUF
Under 6: Free
Important: Always book at least 3 weeks in advance to secure your time slot for the Parliament visit as the time slot fill up quite quickly especially during peak seasons (April till January)
Széchenyi Thermal Bath
Why visit: Budapest is called the “City of Spas,” and Széchenyi is its crown jewel. Opened in 1913, it’s one of the largest spa complexes in Europe, fed by two natural hot springs. With outdoor pools that steam even in winter, ornate neo-baroque architecture, and over a dozen indoor thermal pools, this is a uniquely Hungarian experience.
Locals famously play chess in the steaming outdoor pools — and you can join in too.
Official website: szechenyibath.hu
Tickets: Full-day entry with locker or cabin.
Prices: Weekday ~13,500 HUF; weekends/holidays ~15,000 HUF.
Rudas Thermal Bath
Why visit: Rudas Bath is one of the oldest in the city, originally built by the Ottomans in the 16th century. It retains its authentic Turkish character with a large octagonal pool under a traditional dome. Today, it combines history with modern wellness facilities, including rooftop hot tubs with panoramic views of the Danube.
Special “night bathing” sessions on Fridays and Saturdays make it one of the most atmospheric spots in town.
Official website: rudasfurdo.hu
Tickets: Daily tickets (all zones), fast-track, and night spa access.
Prices: Mon–Thu ~9,800 HUF; weekends ~12,800–13,800 HUF.
Great Synagogue (Dohány Street Synagogue)
Why visit: The Dohány Street Synagogue is the largest in Europe and the second largest in the world. Built in 1859 in Moorish Revival style, it’s not only an active place of worship but also a moving memorial site. The complex includes the Hungarian Jewish Museum, the Heroes’ Temple, and the Raoul Wallenberg Memorial Park with the poignant “Tree of Life” Holocaust Memorial.
Guided tours (included in tickets) provide insight into Jewish history in Budapest and the synagogue’s cultural significance.
Official website: greatsynagogue.hu
Tickets: Admission includes synagogue, museum, memorials, and guided tours.
Prices: Adults ~13,000 HUF; Students ~10,500 HUF.
Budapest offers a perfect mix of culture, history, and relaxation. Whether you’re gazing up at St. Stephen’s Basilica, unwinding in Széchenyi’s steaming waters, or standing in awe inside Parliament, these experiences are unforgettable.
But remember: always buy tickets through the official websites listed above. It guarantees fair prices, secure entry, and peace of mind.
So skip the scams, book smart, and enjoy Budapest to the fullest!
Enjoyed this post? Let’s explore Budapest together!
I’m Betti, your private tour guide behind Betti Tours Budapest.
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