What is the Capital of Hungary? Budapest
Budapest is the capital and largest city of Hungary, often referred to as the “Paris of the East” due to its architectural grandeur, picturesque vistas, and vibrant cultural scene. Located in central Hungary, the city straddles the Danube River, which divides it into two parts: Buda and Pest. The city’s name, Budapest, was officially formed in 1873 when the cities of Buda, Pest, and Óbuda were unified to create a single metropolis.
With a population of about 1.75 million people (2023), Budapest is the political, economic, and cultural heart of Hungary. The city is known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant arts scene, as well as for being a key center for finance, commerce, and education in Central Europe. Budapest is also home to some of Hungary’s most important landmarks, including its UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as Buda Castle, the Parliament Building, and Heroes’ Square.
Budapest is also a major tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors each year who come to experience its thermal baths, world-class museums, and historic streets. The city combines the charm of its historical roots with a modern, cosmopolitan energy, offering a dynamic blend of old-world tradition and contemporary flair.
City Facts
- Area: 525.13 km²
- Population: Approximately 1.75 million (2023 estimate)
- Time Zone: Central European Time (CET) (UTC+1), Central European Summer Time (CEST) (UTC+2, during daylight saving time)
- Highest Mountain: Kékes Mountain, with a height of 1,014 meters (3,327 feet), located in the Mátra mountain range, not within the city itself but in northern Hungary.
- Longest River: Danube River, which flows through Budapest and is the second-longest river in Europe, stretching over 2,850 kilometers.
Major Landmarks in Budapest
Budapest is home to a wide array of architectural and cultural landmarks that showcase the city’s history and vibrant heritage.
1. Buda Castle (Budavári Palota)
The Buda Castle complex is one of Budapest’s most iconic landmarks, perched on Castle Hill. The castle has a history dating back to the 13th century and has been home to Hungarian kings for centuries. Today, the complex houses the Hungarian National Gallery, the Budapest History Museum, and the National Széchényi Library. Its panoramic views over the city and the Danube are a must-see.
2. Hungarian Parliament Building (Országház)
One of the most recognizable buildings in Budapest, the Hungarian Parliament Building is an architectural masterpiece that sits on the banks of the Danube. Built in the late 19th century, it is the largest building in Hungary and one of the largest parliament buildings in the world. Visitors can admire its neo-Gothic design and explore its opulent interiors, including the Holy Crown of Hungary on display.
3. Fisherman’s Bastion (Halászbástya)
Located on the Buda side of the city, the Fisherman’s Bastion offers some of the best panoramic views of Budapest. The structure was built in the early 20th century in a neo-Romanesque style and is named after the fishermen who defended this part of the city during the Middle Ages. The bastion’s seven towers represent the seven Hungarian tribes that settled in the Carpathian Basin in the 9th century.
4. Széchenyi Thermal Bath
Budapest is renowned for its thermal baths, and the Széchenyi Thermal Bath is one of the largest and most famous in the city. The complex features both indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, and steam rooms. It is situated in City Park and is an iconic part of the city’s spa culture, which has been a staple since Roman times.
5. Heroes’ Square (Hősök tere)
Heroes’ Square is one of Budapest’s major public squares and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is home to the Millennium Monument, which commemorates Hungary’s 1,000-year history. The square is also surrounded by the Museum of Fine Arts and the Hall of Art, making it a central point for both historical reflection and modern art.
Climate Overview
Budapest has a continental climate, characterized by hot summers and cold winters. The city experiences four distinct seasons, with relatively mild temperatures in the spring and autumn months. However, summer can bring intense heat, while winters are cold, with occasional snowfalls.
Monthly Climate Overview
| Month | Average Temperature (°C) | Precipitation (mm) | Sunny Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | -1°C to 4°C | 35 | 4 |
| February | 0°C to 5°C | 30 | 5 |
| March | 4°C to 10°C | 40 | 8 |
| April | 8°C to 15°C | 40 | 12 |
| May | 13°C to 20°C | 50 | 15 |
| June | 17°C to 25°C | 60 | 18 |
| July | 20°C to 28°C | 50 | 20 |
| August | 20°C to 28°C | 40 | 18 |
| September | 14°C to 22°C | 40 | 15 |
| October | 9°C to 15°C | 45 | 12 |
| November | 4°C to 9°C | 40 | 6 |
| December | 0°C to 4°C | 35 | 4 |
Other Cities That Have Served as Capital in Hungary’s History
Pécs (1543–1686)
During the Ottoman occupation, Pécs served as the capital of Hungary’s southern provinces. It remained under Ottoman control until the late 17th century. Pécs is famous for its ancient Roman and Ottoman heritage, and the Pécs National Theatre and Pécs Cathedral are important cultural landmarks in the city.
Visegrád (ca. 1300–1600)
The Visegrád was the capital of Hungary during the medieval era, particularly in the 14th century when the royal court of Hungary was centered here. Today, the town is a historical site with the Visegrád Castle and several museums. The Visegrád Group (V4) countries (Hungary, Poland, Czech Republic, and Slovakia) were named after this town, which is historically significant in Central European politics.
Country Facts: Hungary
General Country Information
- Population: Approximately 9.6 million (2023 estimate)
- Area: 93,030 km²
- Largest City: Budapest
- Currency: Hungarian Forint (HUF)
- Official Language: Hungarian
- ISO Country Codes: HU (ISO 3166-1 alpha-2), HUN (ISO 3166-1 alpha-3)
- Government: Parliamentary republic
- Prime Minister: Viktor Orbán (as of 2023)
- Independence: Hungary became an independent state in 1918, following the end of the Austro-Hungarian Empire.
Hungary is a landlocked country in Central Europe, bordered by Austria, Slovakia, Ukraine, Romania, Serbia, Croatia, Slovenia, and Austria. Known for its rich cultural heritage, Hungary is famous for its contributions to music, art, literature, and science. The country is also renowned for its thermal spas, historic wine regions, and delicious cuisine, including dishes such as goulash, pörkölt, and paprikás.
