6 Must-See Modern Buildings in Budapest

Architecture and design enthusiasts can discover some eye-catching contemporary landmarks.

Nov 14, 2011

By: Warren Dunford

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Hungary, Budapest, Palace of Arts by architects Zoboki, Demeter and Associates

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The ING Headquarters is perhaps the most popular contemporary building in Budapest—not only loved by local inhabitants, but met with international recognition. This adventurous headquarters for the Dutch insurance company features a dazzling, distorted pattern on its three-part façade, which is bound together by stainless steel lines.

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Bank Center is Budapest’s most prestigious office complex: a striking combination of glass, steel, marble and granite, focused around a spectacular atrium. The location is on Szabadság Square, a grand downtown park that’s an engaging example of urban design.

Photography AFP/Getty Images

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Unveiled in 2005, the Palace of Arts is a massive, multifaceted arts complex, including an art museum, concert hall and theatre. If all the areas were occupied simultaneously, it would house about 4,500 people.

Photography Hemis/Alamy

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With a striking almost-circular shape, the National Theatre opened in 2002 on the bank of the Danube as home to Hungary’s most prestigious stage. Look for the reflecting pond where the upper façade of the Old National Theatre rests submerged in the water.

Photography Thinkstock

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House of Terror is an unforgettable museum paying tribute to the victims of fascist and communist torture. This average-seeming neo-renaissance apartment house has been outlined by a modern metal frame—literally throwing the “shade of terror” on the walls. The design makes a bold and provocative statement.

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Vörösmarty 1 is a shopping and office complex, commanding a prominent position on Vörösmarty Square. Surrounded by historic architecture, the building resembles a sleek and simple glass box. Decide for yourself whether it works.

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Budapest has superb opera and ballet at its Opera House. Its companies perform not just classics (and a lot of Bartok), but late 20th-century British and American ballets.

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When it comes to dining in Budapest, Rézkakas Bistro, Onyx, The Wine Kitchen, Bock Bistro and Pomo D’oro are beautiful cafés offering a smart ambience and savoury cuisine for any occasion.

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Sweet dessert Tokaj wines remain Hungary’s greatest vinous export, so the Oremus Winery and Disznókó Winery are well worth checking out.

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Take a trip on the Children’s Railway at Szechenyi Hill, a narrow-gauge railway line operated by 10- to 14-year-olds, under the supervision of adult railway workers and teachers.

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Known as the “Paris of the East,” Budapest offers a wealth of ornate classical architecture – from the neo-gothic Hungarian Parliament Building to the art-nouveau Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace Budapest. Ask the Concierge to arrange a guided architectural tour so you can see the best. Here are six not to be missed.

6 Must-See Modern Buildings in Budapest