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One of the best ways to start your evening while traveling is to find the best spots in town to watch the sunset. The same was true for Budapest, which really comes alive as the night progresses. Here are the 10 best sunset spots in Budapest. While they each offer a slightly different view of the city, you can’t go wrong no matter which place you pick, whether in Buda or Pest, to watch the sunset!
1. St. Stephen’s Basilica
Located on the Pest side of the city, St. Stephen’s Basilica serves as the meeting point for many tour operators. Purchase a ticket to the panoramic terrace for amazing views of Budapest. If you time your visit just right, you’ll be in a fantastic spot to see the sun setting over the city. Keep in mind that the terrace closes fairly early, so this is only an option during months when the sun sets early enough.
2. Ferris Wheel of Budapest
If you’re looking for something a little different, time your visit to the Ferris Wheel of Budapest to accord with the sun’s setting. High atop the ferris wheel, you’ll have beautiful views of the city and get to see it change each time you’re at the top. Please note that the ride is not long enough to cover the entire sun setting.
3. Sunset River Cruise
Cruising along the Danube at sunset is a classic way to experience the sights of the city and to see it transform from day to night. So many operators offer this option that you’ll have the option to choose whether to include dinner and a show or just have drinks aboard your cruise. During busy seasons, purchase your tickets in advance.
4. Fisherman’s Bastion
My favorite sunset spot has to be Fisherman’s Bastion, though it is likely to be the most crowded as well. In addition to standing on the walls, there’s a restaurant, Halaszbastya Etterem, serving haute cuisine while you get to enjoy the views of the Parliament as the sun sets. You can find some bars as well, and may need to be patient if waiting for just the right table.
5. Gellert Hill
For those who are looking for a physical challenge, climb up Gellert Hill to get one of the highest viewpoints of Budapest. You’ll be rewarded for your efforts with magnificent views. This is a great spot to capture views of some of the bridges along the Danube as the sun sets. There are plenty of transportation options to get you back down if you prefer not to hike in the dark.
If you’re not into hiking, an alternative is to book a ticket at the St. Gellert Spa for evening hours. The spa has a rooftop pool from which you’ll enjoy views of the city as the sun goes down. It is most certainly one of the best sunset spots in Budapest!
6. Szechenyi Chain Bridge
The beautiful historic Chain Bridge links the Buda and Pest sides of the city. Opening in 1849, it was the first permanent bridge connecting the two sides. The bridge itself is quite magnificent and open to pedestrians, but what makes it unique is taking photos of each of the shores from the bridge itself. As the sun sets, you’ll have beautiful views of both Parliament and Buda Castle.
7. Margaret Bridge
For a completely different view of Budapest, visit the Margaret Bridge as the sun sets. Located in the north of the city, Margaret Bridge crosses the Danube and connects both sides of the city with Margaret Island. Like other bridges in the city, it is accessible to pedestrians and is a perfect spot for watching the sunset.
8. Szechenyi Thermal Baths
Not your traditional place to watch the sunset because it isn’t a high spot, but the Szechenyi Thermal Baths are a beautiful place nonetheless. And visiting the baths as the sun sets allows guests to experience them during both day and night time. Due to the nature of the baths, this is the most relaxing way to enjoy the sunset in Budapest!
9. Buda Castle
The Buda Castle sits atop a hill overlooking the Danube. From its high perch, you’ll find beautiful views of the Pest side as the sun sets. Take an afternoon tour of the castle grounds so that you can top off your experience with the perfect sunset views.
10. Rooftop Bars
Budapest has so many fabulous rooftop bars that it is hard to pick just one! Remember that you’ll need reservations to visit most of these bars. Here are some of the best options:
Liz and Chain Sky Lounge
Atop Marriott’s Budapest Hotel, the Liz and Chain Sky Lounge offers an outdoor terrace with amazing views of Buda. Enjoy a cocktail and light fare while you wait for the perfect moment. Arrive early if you want to sit along the balcony’s edge. Even if you don’t, there is a spot without tables where you can take photos with the Buda Castle in the background.
High Note Sky Bar
Perched atop the Hotel Aria, the High Note Sky Bar has beautiful views of St. Stephen’s Basilica, making it the perfect spot to watch the sunset. The bar serves unique cocktails and small bites. Ask your server how to get to the outside terrace to take fabulous selfies with the basilica in the background!
Pick a hotel with great views:
Booking.comSt. Andrea Wine & Sky Bar
Located one block away from the Danube, the St. Andrea Wine & Sky Bar offers partial views of some of the city’s best attractions. While enjoying a meal or drink here, you’ll get to see St. Stephen’s Basilica and the Ferris Wheel and of the lively Budapest streets below.
Leo Rooftop Bar
For a rooftop bar option on the Buda side, visit the Leo Rooftop Bar on the 8th floor of the Hotel Clark. From this viewpoint, you’ll be able to photograph the beautiful Chain Bridge along with the Parliament in the background.
White Raven Skybar & Lounge
Another rooftop bar option on the Buda side is the White Raven Skybar & Lounge. Visitors to White Raven enjoy amazing views of Pest. You’ll even be able to capture Fishermen’s Bastion in the foreground to your Parliament photos! And you’ll be up close to the amazing roof of the Matthias Church.
Final Thoughts on Best Sunset Spots in Budapest
Budapest comes alive at night, and there are so many places where you can enjoy a beautiful sunset. No matter which of these options you choose, you’ll discover the best views of Budapest as the light changes. Have fun visiting as many of them as you can!
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Happy travels,
Annick, The Common Traveler
Raised as a third culture kid living in South America and Europe, Annick caught the travel bug early. As an empty-nester, Annick enjoys sharing her tips for traveling for those with champagne taste and beer budgets.