Széchenyi Square (Széchenyi István Tér)
Széchenyi István Tér, Budapest, Hungary, 1051
Named in honor of the founder of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Széchenyi Square is a must-visit while in Budapest. It’s lined with architectural highlights such as the art nouveau Gresham Palace, which is now a Four Seasons Hotel. Be sure to visit the lobby and to admire artisan stained glass, mosaics, and ironworks.
The basics
Admire historic landmarks such as the Ministry of Justice building, the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, and the statue of Ferenc Deak, the Hungarian minister who negotiated the Compromise of 1867, paving the way for the dual monarchy of Austria-Hungary. Look west and you’ll also see a statue depicting Austrian and Hungarian children, symbolizing peace and unity between the two nations, and the bronze statue of Count István Széchenyi in the northern part.
Things to know before you go
On the east side of the square, there are several bars and restaurants, including Japanese and modern European, which make it perfect for an evening meal.
It's a lovely place for a stroll at any time of the day, with Chain Bridge views particularly striking at sunset time or in the evening.
The square has beautiful green lawns for the kids to play around or to sit and have a picnic.
How to get there
The nearest metro station to the square is Deák Ferenc tér, served by all three metro lines (M1, M2, M3), several bus lines, and the tram line 2. Make sure to allow ample time to truly soak in the beauty and history of Széchenyi Square— it's truly a must-visit destination for travelers with a passion for art, architecture, and cultural exploration.
When to get there
The ideal time to explore Széchenyi Square is during the fall months of September through November, when the weather is mild and there’s plenty of sunshine. Budapest's famous Christmas markets take place in November and December, and Széchenyi Square is transformed into a winter wonderland with festive lights, decorations, and traditional Hungarian food and drink.
Where to find the best views of the river
The square is at the eastern side of the Széchenyi Chain Bridge, the oldest bridge connecting the two sides of Budapest across the River Danube. This makes the square not only a nice place to wander but it also offers unrivaled views of the bridge. Viking Cruises begin on the waterfront in front of the square and take you on a tour up the river.
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